Origin and Meaning of Wilbur

Meaning & Origin

Resolute, brilliant

Origin: Old German - Derived from the Old German name 'Wilburht', where 'wil' means 'will' or 'desire' and 'berht' means 'bright' or 'shining'.

Interesting Facts

  • Wilbur gained popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries, often associated with strong character and reliability.
  • The name has been used across various cultures, predominantly in English-speaking countries, but variations exist in different languages.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Wilbur Wright, one of the pioneering Wright brothers who are credited with inventing the first successful airplane.
  • Wilbur experienced a decline in popularity in the late 20th century but remains a classic choice for those seeking vintage names.
  • Related names include Wilburt, Wilber, and variations such as Guillermo in Spanish-speaking countries.