William vs River

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

William

Boy #10 Most Popular 3 Syllables

"resolute protector, strong-willed guardian"

Origin: Germanic

English German French

✓ All Clear

Boy #112 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"flowing body of water, stream"

Origin: Old French

English American Australian

✓ All Clear

William Rank #10

River Rank #112

William is more popular, ranked #10 vs #112 for River.

Is William or River more popular?

William is more popular, ranked #10 compared to River at #112 in the United States.

What do William and River mean?

William means "resolute protector, strong-willed guardian" (Germanic origin). River means "flowing body of water, stream" (Old French origin).

Are William and River boy or girl names?

William is primarily a boy name. River is primarily a boy name.