Wilfred is a masculine given name of Germanic origin. It is composed of two elements: "wil" meaning "will" or "desire," and "fred" meaning "peace." Thus, the name Wilfred translates to "desiring peace."
The name Wilfred has been popular throughout history, particularly in the Middle Ages when it was borne by several saints and nobility. One of the most notable figures named Wilfred was Wilfred the Hairy (also known as Saint Wilfred), an 8th-century Anglo-Saxon saint who became the Bishop of York. He is revered for his missionary work and is considered a patron saint of England.
In literature, Wilfred Owen is remembered as one of the greatest poets of World War I. His poems about the horrors of war, such as "Dulce Et Decorum Est," continue to be studied and admired today.
While Wilfred may not be as commonly used as it once was, it remains a strong and distinctive name with a rich historical background. It is sometimes shortened to familiar forms like Wilf or Fred. The name Wilfred can also serve as an interesting middle name option for those looking to add a touch of uniqueness to their child's name.
Wilfred is a classic and timeless name that has been given to boys born in the United States over the past century. According to the available data, Wilfred was quite popular during the early to mid-20th century.
From 1910 to 1956, there were a total of 103 births registered for babies named Wilfred in the United States. The name's popularity fluctuated over these years, with peaks and valleys in its usage.
During the early years, Wilfred was given to an average of five boys each year between 1910 and 1913. However, there was a notable increase in its popularity around World War I, with eleven births recorded in 1915. This trend continued into the 1920s, with consistently higher numbers of Wilfred births: eight births in 1918 and 1919, nine births in 1920, ten births in both 1921 and 1926.
Interestingly, the name's popularity seemed to wane during the Great Depression era. Between 1927 and 1929, there were only five or six Wilfred births each year. However, it made a comeback towards the mid-century, with ten births in 1956.
Despite these fluctuations, Wilfred remained a name that parents chose for their sons throughout this period. Its enduring appeal is reflected in its continued usage over several decades. Today, Wilfred continues to be a beloved and respected name among many families across the United States.