Meaning of the Name Willis

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision that will stay with them for life. The name Willis has a rich history and meaning that may appeal to parents looking for a unique and meaningful name. In this article, we will explore the origin, popularity, and famous people with the name Willis.

The name Willis is of English origin and means 'resolute protector'. It is derived from the Old English name Willa, which means 'will, desire' and the Germanic element 'helm', which means 'helmet, protection'. The name Willis was first recorded in the 12th century and has been in use ever since.

The popularity of the name Willis has fluctuated over time. In the early 1900s, it was a popular name for boys in the United States, ranking in the top 100 names. However, its popularity declined in the mid-20th century and has remained relatively uncommon since then. In 2020, the name Willis ranked #2,902 in popularity for boys in the United States.

There have been many famous people with the name Willis throughout history. Some notable examples include: - Willis Carrier: American engineer and inventor who is credited with inventing modern air conditioning - Willis Reed: American basketball player who played for the New York Knicks - Bruce Willis: American actor known for his roles in Die Hard, Pulp Fiction, and The Sixth Sense - Willis Lamb: American physicist who won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1955 - Willis McGahee: American football player who played for the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Denver Broncos

There are several variations of the name Willis, including: - Will: a shortened form of the name Willis - Wilbur: a name of Germanic origin that means 'will, desire' and 'bright, famous' - William: a name of Germanic origin that means 'will, desire' and 'helmet, protection' - Wilson: a name of English origin that means 'son of Will'

The name Willis has a rich history and meaning that may appeal to parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child. While it may not be as popular as it once was, the name Willis has stood the test of time and continues to be used today. Whether you choose the name Willis or a variation of it, it is sure to be a name that your child will be proud to carry with them throughout their life.