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William vs Robert

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

Robert

Boy #90 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"bright fame"

Origin: Old High German (hrod + beraht)

Cultural Roots

English French German Scottish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#90
Total SSA Count
3,785
Syllables
2
Formality
Formal

Playground Safety Score

24 High Risk

{:type=>:nickname, :severity=>:medium, :message=>"'Robert' can be twisted to 'slobbert'"}

Similar Names

Popularity Comparison

William Rank #10
Robert Rank #90

William is more popular, ranked #10 vs #90 for Robert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is William or Robert more popular?

William is more popular, ranked #10 compared to Robert at #90 in the United States.

What do William and Robert mean?

William means "resolute protector, strong-willed guardian" (Germanic origin). Robert means "bright fame" (Old High German (hrod + beraht) origin).

Are William and Robert boy or girl names?

William is primarily a boy name. Robert is primarily a boy name.

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