Origin and Meaning of Billy

Resolute protector

Origin: English - Billy is derived from the name William, which comes from the Old Germanic name Willahelm. The name is composed of the elements 'wil' (will or desire) and 'helm' (helmet or protection).

• Billy is often used as a diminutive or nickname for William, but it has become a popular given name in its own right.
• The name is commonly associated with American culture, partly due to its use in folk songs and stories, such as 'Billy the Kid', a famous outlaw from the American West.
• Notable bearers of the name include Billy Joel, the American musician, and Billy Graham, an influential Christian evangelist.
• In recent years, the name Billy has seen fluctuating popularity, often influenced by trends in culture and media.
• Variations and related names include Bill, Will, and the full name William, as well as international variants like Guillaume (French) and Guillermo (Spanish).