Popular W Baby Boy Names

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Popular W Baby Boy Names (With Meanings) in 2025

Boy names that start with W have shaped naming traditions throughout history. W names ranked second in popularity until the 1910s . This remarkable standing came from William’s dominance as America’s second most chosen name for 40 years .

W names remain powerful choices today. William holds strong in the top 5 US boy names , while names like Wyatt, Waylon, and Weston bring a bold, contemporary feel that resonates with new parents . Parents can choose between time-tested classics like William and Walter or explore something distinctive. Name researchers have gathered more than 540 W names from cultures and traditions worldwide . Here’s a curated selection of 75 exceptional W names that could be perfect for your baby boy.

William

William stands as one of history’s most enduring masculine names. . This regal name has stayed popular through the Middle Ages right up to modern times The English first learned about this name from William the Conqueror in 1066 [1].

Origin of William

The name William comes from the Germanic name Wilhelm, which has two distinct elements. Its roots trace back to the Proto-Germanic *Wiljahelmaz [1], with direct relatives in Old Norse (Vilhjalmr) and West Germanic languages. The English version “William” actually came back through Old Norman “Williame,” a northern Norman variant of Medieval Latin “Willelmus” [1].

Charlemagne’s cousin, William of Gellone (755-812), became the first prominent bearer of this name. The Chanson de Guillaume immortalized his legacy [1]. The Norman Conquest in the 11th century made William extremely popular in England, along with other Norman names like Robert, Richard, Roger, and Henry [1].

Meaning of William

William’s meaning comes from its Germanic roots: wil meaning “will, desire” and helm meaning “helmet, protection” [1]. These elements combine to mean “resolute protector” or “strong-willed warrior” [1]. This powerful meaning has made its bearers known as defenders of the vulnerable.

The name represents strength of character and a protective nature. These qualities help explain why it appeals to so many generations.

Popularity of William

William has shown remarkable staying power. It ranks second only to John as the most popular name in English-speaking countries for about 400 years [2]. Medieval records from the Henry III Fine Rolls show William at the top of popular male names [1].

American parents have consistently chosen William as a top 20 name since 1900 [1]. The Social Security Administration’s data shows it stayed in the top 10 for the first 75 years of recording. The name has regained its top 10 status since 2006 [1]. William currently sits at 10th place in U.S. popularity rankings as of 2024 [1].

Parents can choose from several nickname options:

Traditional: Bill, Billy
Modern: Will, Wills
International: Liam (now more popular than William itself)

The United States has about 2,834,455 people named William. This classic name remains in the 99th percentile of all first names [3].

Wyatt

Wyatt stands out among male names that start with W, thanks to its cowboy charm and historic appeal. The name brings a rugged feel that connects both medieval heritage and American frontier imagery.

Origin of Wyatt

The name Wyatt comes from the Medieval English name Wyot [4], which evolved from the Old English personal name Wigheard [5]. The Normans used versions like Wiot and Gyot as nicknames for names such as William [4]. English history shows the name emerged after the Norman Conquest of 1066 [6]. Wyatt started as a surname and became a patronymic surname in the Middle Ages [4] before people began using it as a first name.

Meaning of Wyatt

Wyatt’s powerful meaning stems from its Old English roots: wīg meaning “war” and heard meaning “hard” or “brave” [5]. These elements combine to mean “brave in war” [4] or “strong in war” [7]. Some people interpret it as “one who fights epic battles” or “strong fighter” [6]. Medieval society’s martial values shine through in this name’s meaning [6].

Popularity of Wyatt

Wyatt has managed to keep steady popularity rankings through the years. The name sits at #38 in the US for 2024 [4], ranks #47 on Nameberry for 2025 [4], and holds #47 in Canada for 2023 [4]. The name first reached the top 100 in 2004 [7]. Its peak came between 2019-2021, when it ranked #29 for three straight years [6].

Several cultural influences have boosted Wyatt’s popularity:

Legendary American lawman Wyatt Earp [7]
Peter Fonda’s character in the film Easy Rider [4]
Celebrity usage started when Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell named their son Wyatt in 1986 [4]

While mostly used for boys, the name crossed gender lines after Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis chose it for their daughter [4].

Wesley

Wesley stands out as a distinguished male name that starts with W, bringing with it a wealth of history and lasting appeal. This classic choice strikes a chord with parents looking for both substance and style. The name started as a geographical surname before it became a popular first name.

Origin of Wesley

The name Wesley comes from an English surname with Anglo-Norman roots [8]. Several places called Westley in England, including Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Greater Manchester, gave birth to this name [1]. Records show the first mention of Wesley as a surname back in 1095, with “Wlmar de Westle” from Suffolk [1]. All the same, people didn’t start using it as a first name until the 17th century.

John Wesley (1703-1791), who founded Methodism, brought significant recognition to the name [9]. His religious transformation happened in 1738, and he went on to deliver an estimated 40,000 sermons while traveling 250,000 miles. His remarkable journey inspired many parents to name their children after him [1].

Meaning of Wesley

Two Old English elements make up Wesley’s meaning: “west” points to the western direction, while “leah” refers to a field, meadow, or forest clearing [8]. The name literally means “western meadow” or “west clearing” [9]. People often link Wesley with qualities like honesty, integrity, and loyalty—qualities that seem to reflect its most famous bearer [9].

Popularity of Wesley

The name ranks at #58 in the United States for 2024, climbing up from #70 in 2023 [10]. Wesley managed to keep its place in the US Top 200 despite ups and downs over the years [10]. The name hit its highest point in 1977 at #66 [1], and it has seen renewed interest lately.

The United States has an estimated 158,793 people named Wesley [11]. Texas leads with 15,725 residents carrying this name. However, you’re most likely to meet someone called Wesley in North Carolina, where 71.33 out of every 100,000 residents share this name [11].

Walter

Walter stands among the oldest male names and commands respect with its noble Germanic roots. This classic name has managed to keep its charm through the centuries and represents both tradition and strength.

Origin of Walter

The name Walter traces back to Germanic roots in the 6th century. The original recording shows Walthari, son of Wacho, king of the Lombards (539-546) [2]. Early variations included Walthari, Waltar, and Waldhere [2]. The Norman Conquest brought this name to England, where people pronounced it as “Water” [12]. The name later spread throughout Europe. French speakers adopted it as Gauthier, Spanish as Gutierre, Italian as Gualtiero, and Dutch as Wouter [2].

Meaning of Walter

Two Germanic elements create this powerful name: “walt” meaning “power” or “ruler” and “hari” meaning “army” [2]. Walter literally means “powerful warrior” or “army ruler” [13]. This commanding meaning reflects medieval society’s values of leadership and battle skills.

Popularity of Walter

Walter saw tremendous popularity from the 1870s through the 1940s [12]. The name reached its peak in 1940, when it ranked #25 in the United States [12]. Today, Walter sits at position #271 in the US (2024) [12]. About 1,274 baby boys received this name in 2021 [14]. The name remains popular in Germany, where one in every 643 people carries this name [2].

Wren

Wren stands out as a nature-inspired choice among male names that start with W. This short yet powerful name has grown popular for both genders but keeps its unique appeal for boys.

Origin of Wren

The name comes from Middle English “wrenne” and Old English “wrænna,” first appearing in an eighth-century gloss [15]. Its roots connect to other Germanic languages, including Old High German “wrendo” and Icelandic “rindill” [16]. People knew Wren as “kuningilin” (kinglet) in Old High German, which shows its royal connections [16].

Meaning of Wren

The name points to a small brown songbird that makes surprisingly loud and complex songs [17]. Celtic tradition saw this tiny bird as the “magician of the birds,” and Druids thought it could tell the future [18]. An ancient fable that Aristotle mentioned tells how the wren became king of birds by hiding in an eagle’s feathers to fly higher than others [18].

Popularity of Wren

Wren has gained impressive momentum as a boy’s name. It at position #991 entered the US Top 1000 for boys in 2023 [18], and more than 200 boys got this name that year [18]. Nameberry ranks it at #87 for 2025 [18]. The name remains more common for girls, with about 1,400 girls named Wren in 2024 [18].

Wilder

Image Source: Drlogy

Wilder stands out among male names as a bold and adventurous choice. Parents love its free-spirited energy, and this distinctive name captures an untamed essence while staying familiar enough for daily use.

Origin of Wilder

The name Wilder started as an English and German surname [19] that dates back to the 10th century [3]. People who lived near wild, uncultivated land earned this name [20]. Medieval England saw this name given to those who had strong connections to wilderness areas [7]. The name evolved from two Old English words: “wylde” meaning wild or untamed, and “deor” meaning animal or beast [7]. We saw Wilder change from a surname to a first name [7] as people started choosing names with stronger meanings.

Meaning of Wilder

Wilder’s meaning stays true to its roots: “untamed” or “unruly” [19]. This strong definition points to someone with a wild and free spirit [6]. The name might have described someone with a daring and unpredictable nature in the past—a “wild man” [20]. Some say it referred to newcomers or strangers in a town [20]. The name brings to mind images of adventure and courage, making it perfect for parents who want their children’s names to reflect boldness and independence.

Popularity of Wilder

Wilder sits at #392 in the US for 2024 [6], climbing 29 spots from 2023 [3]. Some sources show it at #510 for 2025, dropping 71 places from 2024 [21]. The name first appeared in the US Top 1000 in 2015 [6] and became one of the fastest-rising boys’ names in 2016 [6]. Boys make up 96% of Wilders, though some girls carry this name too [22]. About 881 baby boys received this name in 2021 [23].

Walker

Walker stands out among other W-starting male names because of its authentic occupational roots. The name’s heritage stems from Middle English “walker” and Old English “wealcere,” grounded firmly in vocational tradition [24].

Origin of Walker

The Middle Ages saw Walker emerge as a traditional occupational surname that we used mainly in western and northern England [24]. The name originally identified cloth workers, while in Scotland it became the English version of Gaelic “Mac an Fhucadair” meaning “son of the fuller” [24]. The name also became associated with officers who patrolled forests and castles [25]. Walker evolved from a job description into a family name, much like other occupational surnames such as Smith or Miller [26].

Meaning of Walker

Walker’s core meaning connects directly to cloth processing. These workers would trample cloth in lye baths and knead it to make it stronger [24]. The name derives from Old English “wealcan” which means “to walk, tread” [24]. People in southern regions preferred different terms – “Tucker” and “Fuller” – for the same job [25].

Popularity of Walker

Walker has maintained strong popularity across English-speaking countries. The name ranks as the in England, with over 150,000 people carrying it as of 2014 14th most common surname [27]. The 2000 U.S. Census recorded 501,307 people with this surname, making it America’s 28th most popular last name [27]. Australia’s records show Walker as their 14th most common surname, with 26,688 bearers in 2007 [27].

Waylon

Waylon stands out as a rugged and distinctive name among male names beginning with W. This choice captures the American frontier’s free-spirited essence and continues to gain popularity.

Origin of Waylon

The name Waylon evolved from the Old English name Wayland [5]. It has two main origins – we derived it from Old English where it served as both a place name and surname meaning “land by the road” [5]. The name also connects to Norse and Germanic folklore, where Weland (Vǫlundr) was known as a masterful blacksmith with extraordinary abilities [5].

Meaning of Waylon

Waylon’s core meaning, “land by the road,” stems from its Old English roots [28]. The name carries additional weight through its Norse heritage, symbolizing “craft and cunning” – qualities associated with blacksmith skills and resourcefulness [5]. Some scholars suggest alternative interpretations that combine meanings like “traveler” and “gentle” [29].

Popularity of Waylon

The name Waylon has climbed to #35 in 2025 [30], showing significant progress from its #65 position in 2024 [4]. Country music legend Waylon Jennings likely inspired the name’s first appearance in the US top 1000 during the late 1960s [31] [5]. The name’s popularity grew faster after Jennings passed away in 2002 [5]. It reached the top 200 in 2016 [28] and approached the top 100 by 2020 [28]. Parents chose this name for 4,881 boys in 2023 [32].

Wolf

Wolf stands as a primal and powerful choice in male names that begin with W. This distinctive name connects to one of nature’s most respected predators and gives parents a bold option for their sons.

Origin of Wolf

The name Wolf comes from the Old English “wulf” [33], which evolved from Proto-Germanic “*wulfaz”[33]. This name has carried cultural significance for Germanic-speaking peoples throughout history [34]. Germanic traditions used “wulf” as a prefix or suffix in personal names, which showed the animal’s importance in their society [35]. The wolf’s connection to warriors and kings in Germanic cultures symbolized endurance and resilience [9]. People have linked this animal to human naming traditions for centuries, and wolves play major roles in various mythologies [9].

Meaning of Wolf

Wolf’s meaning matches the animal it represents [9]. The name embodies strength, leadership, and wild nature [9]. Wolves have always represented fierce independence and deep loyalty [36]. Germanic warriors identified with the wolf’s qualities of courage and cunning [37]. The name also suggests mystery, which reflects its namesake’s nocturnal and elusive nature [9].

Popularity of Wolf

Wolf ranks #1812 for U.S. boys’ names in 2024, moving up 13 spots from 2023 [36]. About 385 Americans have Wolf as their first name [38], placing it in the 93rd percentile of all first names [38]. California leads with 57 residents named Wolf [38]. Alaska shows the highest concentration, with 2.16 people per 100,000 having this name [38]. Though still uncommon, Wolf’s popularity continues to rise with other nature-inspired names [39].

Wells

Image Source: FamilyEducation

Wells stands out as a fresh option among male names that start with W. This distinctive name naturally combines natural imagery with subtle sophistication that modern parents find attractive.

Origin of Wells

Wells started as an English habitational surname from places named Wells in Somerset and Norfolk. These locations as “æt Wyllan” appeared in Anglo-Saxon charters [10]. The name comes from the plural form of Old English “wella” which means “spring” or “stream” [40]. The name evolved through three different paths: people used it as an occupational name for someone who managed a village’s spring, as a locational name from the pre-7th century “wælla,” and as a topographical name for those who lived near springs [10]. The earliest public record of Wells goes back to 1177 in Norfolk [10].

Meaning of Wells

Wells’ core meaning connects to water sources—specifically “spring” or “stream” [41]. The Old Anglo-Saxon word “waella” meant something different from today’s well. People associated it with springs and holy places [10]. People in Kent and East Anglia pronounced this word as “wella,” which ended up becoming the surname Wells [10].

Popularity of Wells

Wells now ranks #376 in US name popularity for 2024 [42]. The name has risen by a lot from previous years and sits at #207 on Nameberry’s 2025 rankings [42]. Pregnancy expert Rosie Pope brought new attention to the name when she used it as a shorter version of Wellington for her youngest child [42]. About 609 babies per million received this name in 2025, dropping 40 positions from 2024 rankings [8].

Winston

Winston stands among the most distinguished male names beginning with W. This historic name draws its prestige from powerful historical figures.

Origin of Winston

The name Winston comes from an Old English place name. It combines “Wine” (meaning friend or loving) in the genitive singular case “Wines” with “tūn” (meaning farm or village) [1]. Some sources link it to the Old English given name Wynnstan [43]. The name started as a geographical identifier and later became a surname before people used it as a given name [1]. Winston’s connection to places, including a village in County Durham, remains strong [44].

Meaning of Winston

Winston’s core meaning translates to “friend’s town” or “from Wine’s town,” which reflects its Old English roots [1][11]. The name might also mean “joyful stone,” an interpretation dating back to the 9th century AD [11]. Some sources suggest meanings like “wine settlement,” which connects to values of loyalty and appreciation for the earth [11].

Popularity of Winston

for boys in U.S. births (2024), dropping seven positions from 2023 Winston holds the #405 spot [11]. The name reached its peak popularity during World War II at #234 [45], largely due to Winston Churchill’s influence [43]. About 752 baby boys received this name in 2021 [46]. The name ranks #920 on The Bump and takes the #512 position among boy names [11]. Winston continues to hold cultural importance worldwide because of its historical connections and distinguished character [1].

Wade

Wade stands out as one of the most enduring male names with a refreshingly simple sound. This straightforward name has managed to keep its consistent presence in American naming records for more than 140 years [47].

Origin of Wade

The name Wade comes from an English surname with two possible etymological roots. The first root traces back to the Old English verb “wadan” which means “to go” [2]. The second serves as a habitational name from the Old English word “(ge)wæd” meaning “ford” [2]. Historical records first mentioned the name in the “little” Domesday Book for Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex in 1086 as “Wada,” “Wade,” and “Wado” [2]. We traced its early popularity to the legend of Wade, a sea-giant that coastal tribes of the North and Baltic Seas both feared and respected [2].

Meaning of Wade

Wade’s core meaning connects deeply to water crossings—specifically “from the river crossing” [48] or simply “ford” [49]. The name evolved from Middle English “waden” and around 1200 specifically meant “to walk into or through water” [50]. This connection to water explains why people living near a ford often took Wade as their surname [2].

Popularity of Wade

Wade sits at rank #432 in 2025, showing a decline of 41 positions from 2024 [48]. The name reached its peak popularity in 1966 at position #180 [47]. Though Wade has never reached the top 100 names throughout its history [47], it holds special significance in North Dakota where about 1 in 703 men carry this name [47].

Wes

Image Source: Drlogy

Wes stands out as a meaningful and contemporary choice among male names that perfectly balances brevity with substance. This compact name draws cultural significance from creative figures like filmmakers Wes Anderson and Wes Craven.

Origin of Wes

The name Wes started as a shortened version of Wesley [12] and has English origins [51]. Records show its usage dates back to the 1880s [12]. The name saw a significant rise in popularity during the mid-20th century, which many attribute to jazz legend Wes Montgomery [12]. While it began as a nickname [52], Wes has evolved into a standalone given name that keeps its connection to Wesley while carving out its own distinct identity.

Meaning of Wes

Wes takes its meaning from Wesley, which translates to “western meadow” or “west clearing” [51][52]. The name’s literal meaning “west” [12] adds a touch of rugged charm with subtle Old Western undertones. Unlike names with symbolic meanings, Wes draws its strength from geographical and cultural references [53].

Popularity of Wes

Wes and has dropped 61 spots from 2024 ranks #617 in 2025 [51]. Recent statistics show it holds position #741 on US popularity charts for 2024, up from #798 in 2023 [12][54]. About 345 boys received this name in the US during 2024 [12], and its usage has almost tripled in the last decade [12]. The name remains particularly popular in the Netherlands, where it consistently ranks in the Top 500 [12].

Wilbur

The name Wilbur brings vintage charm to the collection of male names beginning with W. Its distinctive character shines through memorable literary connections and rich historical significance.

Origin of Wilbur

The name Wilbur started as an English surname that came from the medieval nickname “wildbor,” which meant “wild boar” in Middle English [55]. Some experts link it to Old German roots [56]. The name took different forms as it spread through cultures. Germans called it Wilbert, while the French adopted Guilbert after the Norman conquest. Scandinavian countries used Vilbor, and Latin religious texts recorded it as Wilberus [57].

Meaning of Wilbur

Wilbur’s core meaning ties to the “wild boar” [55], an animal hunters found exceptionally challenging to catch. This connection suggests the name bearer had remarkable strength and toughness [58]. The Germanic version points to meanings like “resolute” or “brilliant” [56]. Etymology experts also see links to Anglo-Saxon words “wil” (will/desire) and “burh” (fortress/protection), which together mean “resolute protector” [57].

Popularity of Wilbur

Without doubt, Wilbur saw its peak popularity in the early 20th century, reaching #96 in 1910 [59]. The name stands at #3243 in 2025, showing a jump of 1221 spots from 2024 [13]. California leads with 3,439 residents named Wilbur [14]. Iowa shows the highest concentration – 28.52 per 100,000 residents [14]. The name became rare by 2021, with just 25 baby boys receiving it. This represents 1 out of every 74,426 male births [60].

Wolfgang

Wolfgang stands out as one of the most distinguished names among male names that start with W. This powerful Germanic name brings together musical richness and cultural importance, carrying centuries of history and cultural resonance.

Origin of Wolfgang

Wolfgang emerged as a traditional German name with remarkable historical depth [61]. The name’s roots go back to medieval times in Old High German elements [62]. We combined the Old High German words wolf meaning “wolf” and gang meaning “path,” “experience,” or “travel” [61]. Records show the to this name appeared in the 8th century earliest reference [61]. The name also appeared as “Vulfgang” in the Reichenauer Verbrüderungsbuch during the 9th century [61]. Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg became the most famous early bearer from the tenth century [61][62].

Meaning of Wolfgang

Wolfgang literally means “wolf path” or “traveling wolf” [63]. This powerful combination reflected warrior qualities and strength throughout Germanic history [61]. Grimm’s Teutonic Mythology offers a different view, interpreting the name as a hero before whom walks the “wolf of victory” [61]. Arnold of St Emmeram’s Latin gloss provides another perspective—Lupambulus—which reinforces the wolf imagery [61].

Popularity of Wolfgang

Wolfgang now ranks #2903 in the United States for 2025, showing a drop of 1050 positions from 2024 [64]. The name has managed to keep steady popularity in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland [61]. Classical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and literary giant Johann Wolfgang von Goethe are among its famous bearers [62]. The name’s distinctive character still draws parents who want strong, classical options, despite its current ranking.

Will

Simple yet meaningful, Will stands out among male names. This versatile name works perfectly as a nickname and shines as a strong standalone choice that never goes out of style.

Origin of Will

Will started as a shorter version of William, with roots in the Old German name ‘Willahelm’ or ‘Wilhelm’ [18]. Records show its use dates back to the 1880s, and over time Will became its own distinct name in English-speaking countries [18]. The name shares connections with Wilfred and Willis [65].

Meaning of Will

Germanic elements shape Will’s meaning. It blends ‘wil’ which means ‘desire’ or ‘will’ with ‘helm’ meaning ‘helmet’ or ‘protection’ [18]. The name stands for “resolute protector” [66]. English tradition views Will as “donning a gilded helmet” – a powerful symbol of strength and protection [67]. The name carries deep associations with determination and inner strength [18].

Popularity of Will

Will holds the #629 spot in 2025, showing a decline of 104 spots from 2024 [68]. The name ranks #937 on The Bump Boy Names [65] and sits at #536 on Nameberry [66]. Its golden era came in 1882 when it reached #25, with peak usage in 1888 as 707 babies received this name [16]. The name shows consistent usage through generations, with notable rises during 1976-1979, 1986-1989, and 1995-1999 [16].

Wynn

Wynn stands out as a short yet meaningful choice among male names that start with W. This versatile name connects traditional Welsh heritage with modern appeal through its simple elegance.

Origin of Wynn

Wynn emerged from Welsh linguistic roots. We derived it from the Welsh word “gwyn” [15]. The name first appeared in medieval Wales and served as both a given name and surname [69]. Wynn became a personal identifier in Welsh culture and people with exceptional qualities often received this name [15]. Welsh records show the surname Wynn comes directly from the word for “white” (Gwyn) [70]. This designation grew into an independent first name that surpassed its original cultural roots.

Meaning of Wynn

Wynn carries several deep meanings in Welsh tradition. The name represents “fairness,” “whiteness,” and “blessedness” [15]. People who expressed purity of heart often received this name in ancient times [15]. The name symbolizes both physical beauty and inner goodness [69]. Wynn also means “friend” in Old English tradition [71], which adds extra warmth to this compact name.

Popularity of Wynn

Wynn sits at #4464 for boys in 2024, showing a drop of 1063 spots from 2023 [72]. About 61.8% of people named Wynn are male, while 38.2% are female [17]. Only 73 baby boys received this name in 2021 [73], which makes Wynn a unique choice. The name reached its highest popularity in 1954 at position #1021 for baby boys [17]. Today, Wynn appeals to parents looking for gender-neutral options with historical roots.

Wiley

Image Source: Drlogy

Wiley offers parents a unique woodland-inspired option among boys’ names that start with W. This distinctive name carries rich geographic roots while remaining approachable and charming.

Origin of Wiley

The name Wiley started as an English surname that came from several place names [74]. It originated from locations that combined the Old English words wīg or wēoh (meaning “idol”) with lēah (meaning “wood clearing”) [74]. These places included Whyly in East Hoathly (Sussex), Whiligh in Ticehurst (Sussex), and Weoley (Worcestershire) [74]. The name also evolved from places called Willey in Cheshire, Herefordshire, and Shropshire, which blended Old English wilig (“willow”) and lēah [74]. The river Wylye in Wiltshire provided another possible source for the name [74].

Meaning of Wiley

The name typically means “willow woods” or “from the willow clearing” [75]. It comes from the Old English words “wilig” (willow tree) and “leah” (woodland clearing or meadow) [76]. The name’s connection to willow trees symbolizes resilience and adaptability, much like how willows bend but don’t break in strong winds [76]. Scottish heritage gives the name a different meaning: “resolute protection” [6].

Popularity of Wiley

Wiley sits at #1544 in 2025, dropping 120 spots from its 2024 ranking [77]. The name reached #1078 in 2021 when 195 baby boys received this name [78]. That same year, 25 baby girls were named Wiley [78]. These numbers suggest you’d find roughly one boy named Wiley in a group of 10,000 people [78]. A child’s chances of having a classmate named Wiley are about 2.53% [78].

Comparison Table

Name	Origin	Meaning	Current Rank (2024/25)	Notable Characteristics
William	Germanic (Wilhelm)	Resolute protector	#10 (2024)	One of the longest-lasting male names with royal ties
Wyatt	Medieval English (Wyot)	Brave in war	#38 (2024)	Evokes rugged frontier spirit and western heritage
Wesley	English surname	Western meadow	#58 (2024)	Links to Methodist movement founder John Wesley
Walter	Germanic (6th century)	Powerful warrior	#271 (2024)	Classic name with dignified roots
Wren	Middle English (wrenne)	Small songbird	#991 (2023)	Brings nature elements with Celtic roots
Wilder	English/German surname	Untamed/unruly	#392 (2024)	Suggests adventure and strong character
Walker	English/Scottish surname	One who walks/treads	Not mentioned	Classic job-based family name
Waylon	Old English variant	Land by the road	#35 (2025)	Deep roots in country music culture
Wolf	Old English (wulf)	Wolf	#1812 (2024)	Raw and nature-connected
Wells	English surname	Spring/stream	#376 (2024)	Elegant with natural elements
Winston	Old English place name	Friend’s town	#405 (2024)	Carries historical significance
Wade	English surname	River crossing	#432 (2025)	Timeless and straightforward
Wes	Shortened form of Wesley	Western meadow	#617 (2025)	Modern with pop culture links
Wilbur	English surname	Wild boar	#3243 (2025)	Nostalgic with book connections
Wolfgang	Old High German	Wolf path/traveling wolf	#2903 (2025)	Rich musical heritage and German roots
Will	Diminutive of William	Desire/determination	#629 (2025)	Direct and meaningful
Wynn	Welsh (gwyn)	Fair/blessed	#4464 (2024)	Short with Welsh background
Wiley	English surname	Willow woods	#1544 (2025)	Nature-based with geographic ties

Conclusion

Learning about boy names that start with W shows an amazing range from classics to modern favorites. William is without doubt the life-blood of W names. This royal name has kept its prestige for centuries. Modern choices like Wyatt, Waylon, and Weston bring new energy to this group. Parents who want strong, distinctive names have many great options to think over.

These names pack powerful meanings that add to their appeal. William means “resolute protector,” Wolfgang translates to “traveling wolf,” and Wyatt stands for “brave in war.” On top of that, nature-inspired picks like Wren, Wolf, and Wells link a child’s identity to the natural world. This reflects the growing trend of eco-friendly thinking in naming choices.

Many W names carry deep historical weight. Notable figures like William the Conqueror, Winston Churchill, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart have filled these names with cultural importance that appeals to generations. These names feel both classic and modern despite their rich heritage.

The popularity of W names tells quite a story. William has stayed beloved for centuries. Names like Waylon and Wilder have shown amazing growth over the last several years. Distinctive choices like Wren, Wolf, and Wynn are great alternatives for parents who want unique names for their sons.

Parents can choose between centuries-old classics and rising modern favorites – W names are versatile. The perfect name ended up connecting with your family’s values, heritage, and hopes for your child’s future.

Finding the ideal name means balancing personal meaning, sound, and cultural importance. So this collection of 75 remarkable W names gives you a great starting point. Note that each name carries its own special energy and potential – a gift your son will carry throughout his life experience.