The name Willow has its origins in the Old English word 'welig' which referred to the willow tree. Its meaning is associated with slender grace, resilience, and flexibility. The name gained popularity during the Middle Ages and was particularly common in England, where willow trees were abundant.

The willow tree held significant symbolism in ancient cultures. In ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, the willow represented fertility, death, and new life. The ancient Greeks and Romans also revered the willow and associated it with mourning and the underworld. Willow branches were often used in funeral rites and ceremonies.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Willow can be found in the Domesday Book, a survey commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086, where it appeared as a surname. The name likely transitioned from a surname to a given name during the late Middle Ages.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Willow. One of the earliest recorded examples is Willow Rosenberg, a fictional character from the popular television series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," introduced in 1997. In literature, Willow Ufgood was the main character in the 1988 fantasy film "Willow," directed by Ron Howard.

Another notable Willow was Willow Palin, the daughter of former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, born in 1994. In the music industry, Willow Smith, the daughter of actors Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, has gained recognition as a singer and songwriter, having been born in 2000.

One of the earliest recorded instances of Willow as a given name dates back to the late 19th century, when Willow Cunard, an American vaudeville performer, was born in 1888. She was known for her comedic performances and appeared in several films during the early 20th century.