Find out how popular the first name Wilem has been for the last 1 years (from 2005 to 2005) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Wilem by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Wilem is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2005, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Wilem.

The history of the first name Wilem

The given name Wilem has its origins in the Old German language, dating back to the medieval period. It is derived from the Germanic root words "wil" meaning "will" or "desire," and "helm" meaning "helmet" or "protection." The name can be interpreted as "resolute protector" or "one with a strong will to protect."

The name Wilem was prevalent in regions where Germanic tribes settled, including parts of modern-day Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Its earliest recorded use can be traced back to the 8th century, when it appeared in various historical records and chronicles.

In ancient texts, the name Wilem is mentioned in the Nibelungenlied, a Middle High German epic poem from the 13th century. The epic features a character named Willehalm, which is a variation of the name Wilem.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Wilem was Willehalm of Orange (c. 750-828), a legendary French count and hero of several medieval chansons de geste (epic poems). Another notable figure was Willem van Oranje (1533-1584), also known as William the Silent, the main leader of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule.

In the realm of literature, Wilem Shakespeare (1564-1616), the renowned English playwright and poet, is perhaps the most famous bearer of the name. His works, including "Hamlet," "Romeo and Juliet," and "Macbeth," have had a profound impact on the English language and literature.

Another historical figure bearing the name Wilem was Willem Janszoon (c. 1570-1630), a Dutch navigator and colonial governor who led the first European expedition to land on the western coast of the Australian continent in 1606.

Wilem Einthoven (1860-1927), a Dutch physiologist and inventor, is also noteworthy for his contributions to the development of the electrocardiogram (ECG), for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1924.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Wilem was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Wilem, please contact us.

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