Back to Baby Names

William vs Bryson

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

William

Boy #10 Most Popular 3 Syllables

Meaning

"resolute protector, strong-willed guardian"

Origin: Germanic

Cultural Roots

English German French

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#10
Total SSA Count
10,596
Syllables
3
Formality
Formal

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Similar Names

Bryson

Boy #147 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"son of Brice, the speckled one"

Origin: Welsh via English

Cultural Roots

English American Scottish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#147
Total SSA Count
2,469
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Similar Names

Popularity Comparison

William Rank #10
Bryson Rank #147

William is more popular, ranked #10 vs #147 for Bryson.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is William or Bryson more popular?

William is more popular, ranked #10 compared to Bryson at #147 in the United States.

What do William and Bryson mean?

William means "resolute protector, strong-willed guardian" (Germanic origin). Bryson means "son of Brice, the speckled one" (Welsh via English origin).

Are William and Bryson boy or girl names?

William is primarily a boy name. Bryson is primarily a boy name.

More Comparisons