William
Meaning: Resolute protector; strong-willed helmet
Origin: Old Germanic Willahelm — from wil (will, desire) + helm (helmet, protection)
Gender: Boy
Rank in Ireland: #16
Total births: 20,896
History: William has deep roots in Irish culture, carried by generations from the rolling hills of Kerry to the bustling streets of Dublin. The name gained particular popularity after the founding of the GAA in 1884, when families across Ireland embraced names that reflected their pride in Gaelic heritage. It remains a beloved choice in parishes from Donegal to Cork, often heard echoing across hurling pitches on Sunday mornings.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #73 |
| Babies named William in 2025 | 81 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 20,896 |
| Peak year | 1965 (1,000 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #8 |
| Years in records | 1964–2025 (62 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 22 spots |
Frequently asked about William
What does the name William mean?
William means “Resolute protector; strong-willed helmet” from Old Germanic Willahelm — from wil (will, desire) + helm (helmet, protection) roots.
What is the origin of the name William?
William has Old Germanic Willahelm — from wil (will, desire) + helm (helmet, protection) origin. The traditional meaning is “Resolute protector; strong-willed helmet”.
How popular is William in Ireland?
William ranked #73 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 81 babies that year.
When was William most popular?
William peaked in 1965 with 1,000 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is William a boy or girl name?
William is predominantly a boys' name in Ireland — over 90% of Williams in registered births are male.
Is the name William rising or falling in popularity?
William has fallen 22 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Ireland — from #51 in 2020 to #73 in 2025.
How long has William been recorded in Ireland?
William appears in birth records in Ireland across 62 years — from 1964 through 2025.