Billy vs Liam

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Billy

Boy #1,051 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"resolute protector"

Origin: Old German via Norman French

Cultural Roots

English American Australian Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,051
Total SSA Count
210
Syllables
2
Formality
Casual
Nicknames
Bill, Bills

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Billy →

Popularity Comparison

Billy Rank #1,051
Liam Rank #1

Liam is more popular, ranked #1 vs #1051 for Billy.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Billy ___

  • Billy Ray
  • Billy Joe
  • Billy Dean
  • Billy James
  • Billy Lee
  • Billy Gene

Liam ___

  • Liam James
  • Liam Alexander
  • Liam Thomas
  • Liam Michael
  • Liam Patrick
  • Liam Joseph

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Billy

Bobby Tommy Jimmy Johnny Betty

If you choose Liam

Olivia Emma Noah Charlotte Sophia

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Billy or Liam more popular?

Liam is more popular, ranked #1 compared to Billy at #1051 in the United States.

What do Billy and Liam mean?

Billy means "resolute protector" (Old German via Norman French origin). Liam means "strong-willed warrior" (Irish origin).

Are Billy and Liam boy or girl names?

Billy is primarily a boy name. Liam is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Billy ← Full profile: Liam Browse all baby names