William Laurence

Name meaning, origin and global statistics

William Laurence — strong protector
3.7 million People worldwide
United States Most common in
1970s Peak popularity
Gender
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William Laurence is a name that combines Germanic origins. The first name William is a masculine given name of Germanic origin. From the Old High German Willahelm, composed of wil (will, desire) and helm (helmet, protection). Introduced to England by William the Conqueror in 1066. The surname Laurence: Laurence is in modern use as an English masculine and a French feminine given name. The modern English masculine name is a variant of Lawrence and originates from a French form of the Latin Laurentius, a name meaning "man from Laurentum". The French feminine name Laurence is derived from the same source and is used in French-speaking countries as a form of the masculine Laurent. The name was used in the Middle Ages for both males and females in honor of Saint Laurence, one of the seven deacons of Rome. In England, it was also given in reference to Saint Laurence of Canterbury. William is one of the most widespread first names worldwide, carried by approximately 3.7 million people globally, with the highest concentration in United States. The name William reached peak popularity in the 1970s, reflecting the naming trends of that era.

Etymology & Origin

First Name: William

Meaning: strong protector

Germanic

From the Old High German Willahelm, composed of wil (will, desire) and helm (helmet, protection). Introduced to England by William the Conqueror in 1066.

Surname: Laurence

Latin

Laurence is in modern use as an English masculine and a French feminine given name. The modern English masculine name is a variant of Lawrence and originates from a French form of the Latin Laurentius, a name meaning "man from Laurentum". The French feminine name Laurence is derived from the same source and is used in French-speaking countries as a form of the masculine Laurent. The name was used in the Middle Ages for both males and females in honor of Saint Laurence, one of the seven deacons of Rome. In England, it was also given in reference to Saint Laurence of Canterbury.

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Geographic Distribution

The first name William is distributed across the globe, with the highest concentrations in the following countries:

United States 46%
United Kingdom 24%
Germany 13%
Australia 9%
Canada 8%

Popularity Over Time

Popularity of the name William by decade, based on birth registration data:

1900s
1910s
1920s
1930s
1940s
1950s
1960s
1970s
1980s
1990s
2000s
2010s
2020s
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Name Variants & Related Names

The name William has several variants and related forms across different languages and cultures:

  • Will
  • Bill
  • Willy
  • Billy
  • Guillaume
  • Wilhelm
  • Guillermo

Notable People Named William Laurence

People listed above share this name. Listed for informational purposes only. Source: Wikipedia.

Numerology

According to Pythagorean numerology, each letter in a name carries a numerical value. Here are the key numbers for William Laurence:

5
Expression Number

Freedom and adaptability. A dynamic, versatile personality that embraces change and seeks new experiences.

6
Soul Urge Number

Nurturing and responsibility. Associated with care, family values and a strong sense of duty towards loved ones.

8
Personality Number

Ambition and material success. Represents power, business acumen and the drive to achieve significant goals.

Numerology is a cultural tradition for exploring symbolism in names. Results are for entertainment purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the first name William?
The first name William originates from Germanic. From the Old High German Willahelm, composed of wil (will, desire) and helm (helmet, protection). Introduced to England by William the Conqueror in 1066.
When was William most popular?
The name William reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.
What is the origin of the surname Laurence?
The surname Laurence originates from Latin. Laurence is in modern use as an English masculine and a French feminine given name. The modern English masculine name is a variant of Lawrence and originates from a French form of the Latin Laurentius, a name meaning "man from Laurentum". The French feminine name Laurence is derived from the same source and is used in French-speaking countries as a form of the masculine Laurent. The name was used in the Middle Ages for both males and females in honor of Saint Laurence, one of the seven deacons of Rome. In England, it was also given in reference to Saint Laurence of Canterbury.
What are the origins of the name William Laurence?
The name William Laurence combines two different traditions: the first name William has Germanic roots, while the surname Laurence originates from Latin.
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