Wilhelm: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days serve as a significant cultural tradition in many parts of Europe, marking the feast day of a saint after whom a person is named. The name Wilhelm, derived from Old High German roots meaning "resolute protection," embodies a strong and historically resonant tone. Globally recognized as a classic masculine identifier, Wilhelm maintains a mood of formal elegance and authority. This distinguished name is celebrated on numerous name days, particularly in Austria, Poland, and Germany. The traditional nature of Wilhelm provides a link between ancient heritage and modern usage.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Wilhelm's name day is celebrated
on January 1 in Austria,
January 10 in Austria and Poland,
April 6 in Austria and Poland,
April 20 in Austria,
May 28 in Austria, Germany and Poland,
June 8 in Poland,
June 24 in Poland,
June 25 in Poland,
July 5 in Poland and
September 2 in Poland.
The Story Behind This Name
Wilhelm has historically maintained a significant cultural presence in the USA, particularly due to large waves of German immigration during the 19th and early 20th centuries. While often anglicized to William, the spelling Wilhelm remains in use, especially within communities retaining strong German heritage. Its popularity peaked around the turn of the 20th century before seeing a gradual decline throughout the later decades. Today, it is considered a classic but relatively uncommon name in modern American naming trends. The name carries a historical weight reflecting early European influence on the American social landscape.
Name origin and meaning
The name Wilhelm is rooted in the Old High German language, developed from the elements *willa* and *helm*. The element *willa* translates to "will" or "desire," denoting determination or resolve. The second element, *helm*, signifies "helmet" or "protection." Therefore, the name generally conveys the concept of "resolute protection" or "a helmet of will." This powerful combination cemented its status as a foundational name across many European royal houses and cultures throughout history.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Wilhelm is overwhelmingly identified as a traditionally masculine given name throughout the world. It maintains a strictly male classification across Europe, particularly in Germanic and Scandinavian regions. There are no common variations or historical precedents that classify Wilhelm as a female name. Although unisex naming trends are common globally, Wilhelm remains firmly entrenched as a male identifier. It is universally understood as a classic male designation across various international naming dictionaries.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Wilhelm projects a strong, serious, and classically elegant mood. It evokes a formal tone, suggesting tradition, gravitas, and historical depth. There is an unmistakable nobility associated with the sound of the name, lending it an air of authority and strength. While not overtly playful, the name possesses a mature, sophisticated, and unwavering character. It carries a heavy, resolute vibe, aligning with traditional masculine attributes.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Wilhelm
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 1 – The Leader.
Keywords: Independence, ambition, innovation, leadership, determination.
Positive Traits: Self-motivated, original thinker, confident, goal-oriented, strong-willed.
Challenges: Can be stubborn, impatient, egotistical, or overly competitive.
Life Path Meaning: A path of leadership, individuality, and pioneering new ideas.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 9 - The Humanitarian.
Traits: Compassionate, idealistic, wise, selfless.
Strengths: Generous, charismatic, inspires others.
Challenges: Can be overly emotional, self-sacrificing, or struggle with boundaries.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Sun - Leadership, Confidence, Vitality.
The Sun represents power, authority, and self-expression. Names influenced by the Sun often belong to individuals who are natural-born leaders, radiating warmth, charisma, and creativity. They tend to have a strong presence, a sense of purpose, and a desire for recognition. Sun-ruled names often evoke images of brightness, strength, and nobility.
Name days: Name Wilhelm
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
Austria | January | 1 | Maria, Wilhelm |
Austria | January | 10 | Leonie, Paulus, Wilhelm |
Poland | January | 10 | Agaton, Dobrosław, Jan, Nikanor, Paweł, Wilhelm |
Austria | April | 6 | Notker, Wilhelm |
Poland | April | 6 | Ada, Adam, Adamina, Celestyn, Celestyna, Diogenes, Ireneusz, Katarzyna, Sykstus, Wilhelm, Zachariasz, Świętobor |
Austria | April | 20 | Hildegund, Odetta, Wilhelm |
Austria | May | 28 | Germanius, Wilhelm |
Germany | May | 28 | Wilhelm |
Poland | May | 28 | Augustyn, German, Jaromir, Priam, Wiktor, Wiktoriusz, Wilhelm, Wrócimir |
Poland | June | 8 | Karp, Maksym, Medard, Seweryn, Wilhelm, Wyszesław |
Poland | June | 24 | Dan, Danisz, Danuta, Emilia, Jan, Wilhelm |
Poland | June | 25 | Albrecht, Eulogiusz, Lucja, Tolisława, Wilhelm, Łucja |
Poland | July | 5 | Antoni, Bartłomiej, Filomena, Jakub, Karolina, Michał, Przybywoj, Szarlota, Wilhelm |
Poland | September | 2 | Absalon, Bohdan, Czech, Czechasz, Czechoń, Czesław, Dersław, Dionizy, Eliza, Henryk, Julian, Stefan, Tobiasz, Wilhelm, Witomysł |
Name days: Similar names (Wilhelm)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
Poland | May | 26 | Beda, Filip, Marianna, Paulina, Wilhelmina, Więcemił |
USA | June | 25 | Bill, Billie, Billy, Guillermo, Liam, Mina, Minnie, Prosper, Velma, Vilma, Wilhelmina, Will, William, Willie, Willis, Wilma, Wilson |
Poland | October | 25 | Bonifacy, Bończa, Chryzant, Daria, Inga, Kryspin, Maur, Sambor, Taras, Teodozjusz, Wilhelmina |
Wilhelm A Classic Name of Strength
Wilhelm is a firmly masculine name of Old High German origin, signifying "resolute protection." Its history in the USA is tied to immigration, evolving from a prominent historical name to a less common, classic choice today. The name exudes a strong, traditional mood characterized by elegance and serious depth. With name days celebrated across several dates in Central Europe, Wilhelm is cemented as a cornerstone of traditional European nomenclature. This enduring moniker connects determination, historical gravitas, and cultural endurance.
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