Wilm

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Fact sheet

Name
Wilm
Gender
Boy name
Syllables
1

Wilm is a Low German and Westmünsterland short form of the name Wilhelm. Translated, it means 'the strong-willed defender' or 'the determined protector.'

What does the name Wilm mean?

The name Wilm originates from the Westmünsterland and Low German and is a short form of Wilhelm. It is directly interpreted as 'the strong-willed defender' and 'the determined protector.' Its roots lie in Old High German, where it is composed of the elements willio, meaning 'will' or 'determination,' and helm, meaning 'helmet,' 'covering,' 'protection,' or 'shelter.' Variants of the name include Willm, Wilken, or Willijem, while the female form is Wilma. Additionally, Wilm is also used as a surname.

Where does the name Wilm come from?

The name Wilm has its origins in Old High German and means 'the strong-willed defender.' The word components consist of willio, which means 'will' or 'determination,' and helm, which means 'helmet,' 'covering,' 'protection,' or 'shelter.' It is prevalent in the languages of Low German, North German, and Plattdeutsch.

How do you pronounce Wilm?

The pronunciation of Wilm is simple and concise. In German, the name is pronounced as 'Wilm' [vɪlm], with the short I sound dominating and conveying freshness. The consonant combination '-lm' gives the name a solid and closed structure. Due to its brevity, Wilm appears down-to-earth, clear, and has a Nordic, straightforward note.

When is the name day of Wilm?

Wilm celebrates his name day on several days throughout the year: January 1, January 10, February 10, March 28, April 6, April 20, May 28, June 8, June 25, June 27, June 30, September 6, and November 13.

Popularity

In Germany, Wilm is among the relatively popular first names. Currently, it ranks 1,506th on the list of the most common male baby names. Its best ranking was in 2023, reaching 1,164th place. Over the last ten years, Wilm has been given about 150 times, placing it 1,864th during that period. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 2,076th. In the name charts of other countries, Wilm shows varying popularity.

Nicknames & pet names

Willi / Wilmer / Wilmi

Similar first names

Famous people

  • Wilm Brepohl (author)
  • Wilm Dedeke (North German painter)
  • Wilm Herlyn (German political scientist)
  • Wilm Hosenfeld (Wehrmacht officer who saved many Poles and Jews)
  • Wilm Huygen (German filmmaker)
  • Wilm Roil (German actor)
  • Wilm ten Haaf (German director and screenwriter)
  • Wilm Weppelmann (concept artist from Germany)

Frequently asked questions about the name Wilm

Where does the name Wilm come from?

The name Wilm has its origins in Old High German and is particularly common in the Westmünsterland and in Low German.

What does the name Wilm mean?

Wilm is interpreted as 'the strong-willed defender' and is composed of the elements 'willio' for will or determination and 'helm' for protection or covering.

How popular is the name Wilm?

Wilm is known in certain regions of Germany, especially in the north and in the Low German-speaking area, but overall has a relatively low prevalence compared to other traditional names.

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