Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Willi

      Origin 
      Germanic, English

      Meaning 
      Resolute Protector or Willful Warrior

      Variations 
      Willie, Willis, Willia

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Willi derives from Germanic origins and carries significant meaning. It translates to resolute protector or willful warrior, encapsulating qualities of strength, determination, and loyalty. These attributes have made the name particularly appealing for those seeking a strong identity. Willi serves as a shortened version of names like William and Wilhelm, with the latter being the German form. The connotations of protection and willfulness lend the name a powerful resonance, making it a favored choice in various cultures.

      Historically, the name Willi, and its variants, have been notable throughout various eras. The name William, for instance, gained prominence in medieval England, particularly due to William the Conqueror's ascendance in the 11th century. Over time, Willi and its derivatives spread across Europe, particularly in German-speaking regions, where it sometimes appears as Wilhelm. The name has been borne by various notable figures, including kings and scholars, and has woven itself into cultural narratives, embodying the traits of leadership and valor inherent in its meaning.

      In contemporary society, the name Willi remains in use, although it may not be as prevalent as its more formal counterpart, William. It is popularly utilized in German-speaking countries, where it is often embraced with an informal or affectionate tone. In addition to being a given name, Willi is also seen in popular culture, including literature and media, often representing characters who embody the strong and protective traits associated with the name. Its enduring presence highlights the timeless appeal of names that convey strength and resilience in modern contexts.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Willi.
      Schmidt

      is the most common surname for Willi.

      Anna

      is the most common spouse name for Willi.

      Willi

      is the most common child name for Willi.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1910 is when there were the most people born with the first name Willi.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.