Willard is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name Wilhærd, which was composed of two elements: "wil" meaning "will" or "desire," and "hard," an Old Norse element that signifies "strong" or "brave." Thus, Willard can be interpreted as meaning "strong-willed" or "brave in battle."
The name Wilhærd was popular among the Anglo-Saxons during the Middle Ages. It was often used by the nobility and was associated with several historical figures, such as Willard of York, who was a 12th-century Bishop of Worcester and later Archbishop of York.
Over time, the name evolved from Wilhærd to Willhard, Willeard, and finally Willard in English-speaking countries. It has been used consistently throughout history but is still considered somewhat rare today, adding to its uniqueness and appeal for those who choose it.
While Willard may not be as common as some other names, it offers a rich history and unique meaning that sets it apart. Its roots in Old English and Old Norse make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name with deep historical significance.
The name Willard has seen a varied number of births each year in the United States between 1898 and 1969, with some years showing more popularity than others.
From 1898 to 1927, there was a general increase in the number of babies named Willard. The highest point during this period occurred in 1917, with 41 births. After that peak, the numbers started to decrease gradually until reaching a low of 5 births in 1960 and again in 1968.
It's interesting to note that even though the name Willard was more popular during the early 20th century, it still had some popularity in the mid-20th century, with around 5 to 6 babies being named Willard each year from 1952 to 1969.
In total, there were 883 babies named Willard born in the United States between 1898 and 1969. This shows that while it may not have been one of the most popular names during this time period, it was still a name chosen by many parents for their children.