Boy Names

Browse 45,602 beautiful baby boy names with meanings and origins. Discover the perfect boy name for your baby from cultures around the world.

45,602 total boy names
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Walter

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wilbur

This name derives from an English surname, which in turn originally derives from the Middle English nickname “Wildbor” (Old English ‘wilde’ plus Old English ‘bār’), meaning “wild boar.” Wilbur Wright (1867–1912), one-half of the Wright brothers, who together invented the first successful airplane. Wright was named after the Methodist minister Wilbur Fisk (1792–1839).

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wilton

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: “wiell(a)” (spring or stream) plus “tūn” (an enclosed piece of ground, settlement, a large inhabited place, a town). In turn, the name means “the one who lives in a village near a stream.” It is an English locational name from any of the various places so called in Cumberland, Herefordshire, Norfolk, Somerset, Wiltshire, and Yorkshire. Both Wilton in Somerset and Yorkshire have their first element Old English pre-7th-century “wiell(a).” The place that has given its name to Wiltshire derives its name from the Celtic river “wylye,” an ancient British river name, possibly meaning “tricky stream, capricious.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Warwick

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) place-name “Wǣringwīċ,” composed of two elements: “wǣr” (dam) plus “wīċ” (fortification, castle, dairy farm). Warwick (Wǣringwīċ) is the county town of Warwickshire, England. The city lies upon the river Avon, 11 miles (18 km) south of Coventry and just west of Leamington Spa and Whitnash with which it is conjoined. Often the name Warwick is associated with the University of Warwick; although it is in the proximity of Warwick, it is located in the territory of the city of Coventry. It is home to Warwick Castle, which is of considerable historical interest. England's Queen Consort Anne Neville was born there in 1456.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wilburn

Wilburn is a toponymic surname derived from Welborne in Lincolnshire, composed of two elements: from the Old English “welle” (well) plus the Old Norse “brunnr / bruðr” (a stream, brook, river, or other running water). The name Wilburn was brought to England by the Normans when they conquered the country in 1066. The ancestors of the Wilburn family lived in Lincolnshire.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wilford

This name derives from the Old English and Middle English name “Wilford,” composed of two elements: “willow” (willow) plus “ford” (stream, a current). In turn, the name means “willow ford, someone who lived near a ford.” Wilford is a village close to the center of the city of Nottingham, UK. The village is bounded to the north and west by the River Trent and the east by the now-closed Great Central Railway embankment.

old english (anglo-saxon)

William

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wentworth

It is an English locational surname. It originates from either Wentworth in Yorkshire and near to Sheffield, or Wentworth in Cambridge, and near Ely’s city. The name derives from the Old English surname “Winteworde,” composed of two elements: “wintra,” dative singular form of (winter) plus “þorp” (hamlet, village). In turn, the name referred to a settlement inhabited only in winter (winter enclosure)”.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wellington

The surname Newton is a toponymic surname,” composed of three elements: “*weleþu” (wealth) plus “-ing-” (implying association with) plus “tūn” (an enclosed piece of ground, settlement, a large inhabited place, a town). In turn, the name means “wealthy estate.” 1) Wellington, where the surname derives, is a small market town in rural Somerset, a county in the west of England, situated 7 miles (11 km) southwest of Taunton in the Somerset West and Taunton district, near the border with Devon, which runs along the Blackdown Hills to the south of the town. 2) Wellington is the capital city and second most populous urban area of New Zealand. 3) Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, was a British soldier and statesman, a native of Ireland from the Anglo-Irish Ascendancy, and one of the leading military and political figures 19th-century. He is often referred to as the “Duke of Wellington,” even after his death, even though there have been subsequent Dukes of Wellington.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Willoughby

This name derives from the pre-7th-Century Anglo-Saxon locational “Willoughby,” composed of two elements: “wilig” (willow) and Old Norse “*býr” (farmhouse, farmstead), which means “a farm in a meadow of willows”. These places include Willoughby in Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and Warwickshire, which all appear as “Wilgebi” in the Domesday Book of 1086.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wal

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Wat

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wes

Wes is a short form of Wesley and Weston. The name is of Germanic and Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin and comes from the following roots: (*WES-T LĒAH�) and (WESTON).

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wig

This name is a Swedish short form of names containing the element (víg), from the Old Norse “vígr,” meaning “in fighting condition, able to fight.”

old norse

Wim

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wip

This name derives from the Middle English “w(h)ippen,” from the Middle Dutch “wippen,” which in turn derives from the Middle Low German “wippe,” meaning “flap violently, swing, leap, dance, oscillate, a quick movement.” Whip (politics) is an official in a political party whose primary purpose is to ensure discipline in a legislature. The usage comes from the hunting term “whipping in,” i.e., preventing hounds from wandering away from the pack.

germanic

Wit

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Woy

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wye

This name is composed of two elements: from the mid-12 century English “wile, wil,” meaning (wile, artifice, trick, ruse, feint, stratagem, maneuver, dodge) plus from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “lēah,” meaning (woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). Perhaps ultimately related to Old English “wicca,” meaning “wizard.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wade

This name derives from the English (Anglo-Saxon) surname “wadan,” meaning “to go, to advance, to travel.” In turn, the name derives from the Proto-Germanic “*wadaną,” meaning “to go.” It should also be noted the Latin “vadere,” meaning “go, walk.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wagn

This name derives from the Old Norse name and byname “vagn,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*wagnaz,” meaning “cart, wagon, carriage.”

old norse

Wail

Coming back (for Shelter)

arabic

Wale

This name is composed of two African (Yorùbá) elements: “Olú / Olú-Ọ̀rún,” meaning (ruler, God) plus “wọle,” meaning (enter, entered). The name means “God has come home; God has entered; wealth has come home.” Olòrún is the Yorùbá name given to one of the three manifestations of the Supreme God in the Yoruba pantheon. Olorun is the owner of the heavens and is commonly associated with the Sun. The vital energy of Olorun manifests in humans as Ashé, which is the life force that runs through all living things.

african (yorùbá)

Wali

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Walo

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Walt

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wamp

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Iōánnēs (Ἰωάννης),” which in turn, is a form of the Hebrew name “Yôchânân / Yehochanan” meaning “graced by Yahweh, God is gracious.” There are numerous forms of the name in different languages. This name is part of the most massive etymological root of names made up of more than five hundred variations among male and female in different languages. The name “John” had gained popularity among Jews in Judea and Galilee by the time the area became a province of the Roman Empire in 6 A.D. John Hyrcanus was the first king of the Hasmonean Dynasty and was the nephew of Judas Maccabeus. It was the given name of Yochanan ben Zechariah, a Jewish prophet known in English as John the Baptist.

hebrew

Ward

This name derives from the Old High German “wart,” Old English “weard / ƿeard,” meaning “be on guard, watch, watchtower, watchman (law enforcement), a security guard.” Ward can also be an old diminutive form of Durward and Seward, used mainly in the 11th-century.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Ware

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “ead / ēad” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “weard” (guard, defend). In turn, the name derives from two Germanic elements: “*audaz” plus “*warduz” (Proto-Germanic: *audwaroþō). It is one of the few Old English (Anglo-Saxon) names to gain popularity in other parts of Europe and beyond, for example, as Eduardo and Duarte in Spain and Portugal, respectively. Edward the Confessor (~1004–1066), son of Æthelred the Unready and Emma of Normandy, was one of the last Anglo-Saxon kings of England and is usually regarded as the last king of the House of Wessex, ruling from 1042 to 1066. Edward the Martyr (~962–978) was king of the English from 975 until he was murdered in 978. Edward was the eldest son of King Edgar but was not his father’s acknowledged heir.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wash

Washington is a male given name and a surname. It most frequently refers to George Washington (1732–1799), the first President of the United States of America. Early references appear in Tyne and Wear in 1096 in Old English as Wasindone. The etymological origin is disputed, and there are several proposed theories for how the name “Washington” came about. The most supported theory is that Washington is derived from Anglo-Saxon Hwæsingatūn, which roughly means “estate of the descendants (family) of “Hwæsa.” Hwæsa (usually rendered Wassa or Wossa in modern English) is an Old English name meaning “wheat sheaf.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wate

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Welf

This name derives from the Old High German “Welf,” from the Germanic family name “Welfen,” meaning “puppy, give birth to a litter,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Welf I was Duke of Bavaria from 1070 to 1077 and from 1096 to his death. He was the first member of the Welf branch of the House of Este. In the genealogy of the Elder House of Welf, he is counted as Welf IV. Welfen is the German name of one of the oldest and most distinguished European families. The House of Welf (historically rendered in English as Guelf or Guelph) was a European dynasty that has included many German and British monarchs from the 11th to 20th-century and Emperor Ivan VI of Russia 18th-century.

germanic

Welp

This name derives from the Old High German “Welf,” from the Germanic family name “Welfen,” meaning “puppy, give birth to a litter,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Welf I was Duke of Bavaria from 1070 to 1077 and from 1096 to his death. He was the first member of the Welf branch of the House of Este. In the genealogy of the Elder House of Welf, he is counted as Welf IV. Welfen is the German name of one of the oldest and most distinguished European families. The House of Welf (historically rendered in English as Guelf or Guelph) was a European dynasty that has included many German and British monarchs from the 11th to 20th-century and Emperor Ivan VI of Russia 18th-century.

germanic

Went

It is an English locational surname. It originates from either Wentworth in Yorkshire and near to Sheffield, or Wentworth in Cambridge, and near Ely’s city. The name derives from the Old English surname “Winteworde,” composed of two elements: “wintra,” dative singular form of (winter) plus “þorp” (hamlet, village). In turn, the name referred to a settlement inhabited only in winter (winter enclosure)”.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wern

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Whip

This name derives from the Middle English “w(h)ippen,” from the Middle Dutch “wippen,” which in turn derives from the Middle Low German “wippe,” meaning “flap violently, swing, leap, dance, oscillate, a quick movement.” Whip (politics) is an official in a political party whose primary purpose is to ensure discipline in a legislature. The usage comes from the hunting term “whipping in,” i.e., preventing hounds from wandering away from the pack.

germanic

Wiar

This name derives from the Old Norse “Víðarr.” The theories include: 1) Name composed of two elements: “víðr” (wide, broad, extensive), from the Proto-Norse “*wīda-“(wide) plus “*hariaR” (warrior, leader of an army). 2) Name composed of two elements: “*wiðu-” (forest as a borderline), plus “*hariaR” (warrior, leader of an army). In Norse mythology, Víðarr (Old Norse, possibly “wide ruler,” sometimes anglicized as Vidar, Vithar, Vidarr, and Vitharr), is a god among the Æsir associated with a vengeance. Víðarr is described as the son of Odin and the jötunn Gríðr and is foretold to avenge his father’s death by killing the wolf Fenrir at Ragnarök, a conflict which he is described as surviving.

old norse

Wibo

Wibo is a diminutive of Gerwig, Hedwig, Hartwig, Heilwig, Herwig and Ludwig. The name is of Germanic origin and comes from the following roots: (*GAIZAZ WĪG) (HADUWIG) (HARDUWICH) (HEILWIG) (HERWIG) and (CHLODOVECH).

germanic

Wibs

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Wide

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Wido

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Wiel

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wigg

This name is a short form of Vigge and Viggo. It is of Old Norse and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (VÍGR) (VǪGGR) and (VICTOR).

latin

Wijn

This name derives from the Old High German “Baldewin,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave, bold, able-bodied) plus “*-winiz” (friend). In turn, the name means “bold friend, powerful friendship.” Baldwin II of Courtenay was the last emperor of the Latin Empire of Constantinople. He was born in Constantinople, a younger son of Yolanda of Flanders, sister of the first two emperors, Baldwin I and Henry of Flanders.

germanic

Wilf

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilk

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Will

Will is a short form of William, Wilhelmus, Wilbert and Willoughby. It is of Germanic and Old Norse origin and comes from the following roots: (WILLAHELM) (*WILJÔ *BERHTAZ) and (WILIG *BÝR).

germanic

Wilm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilt

It is an English locational name from various places so called in Cumberland, Herefordshire, Norfolk, Somerset, Wiltshire, and Yorkshire. Wilton in Somerset and Yorkshire have their first element, the Old English pre-7th-century “wiell(a),” spring or stream. The place that has given its name to Wiltshire derives its name from the Celtic river “wylye,” an ancient British river name, possibly meaning “tricky stream, capricious.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winý

This name is a form linked to several names with different origins, such as the Old Norse name “Alfvin,” the German names “Albwin, Adalwin” and the Old English names “Ælfwine, Æðelwine, and Ealdwine.” Alvina and its variants are also the Female form of Alv, linked to the root “Alfr / Álfr,” meaning “elf, supernatural being.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wipp

This name derives from the Middle English “w(h)ippen,” from the Middle Dutch “wippen,” which in turn derives from the Middle Low German “wippe,” meaning “flap violently, swing, leap, dance, oscillate, a quick movement.” Whip (politics) is an official in a political party whose primary purpose is to ensure discipline in a legislature. The usage comes from the hunting term “whipping in,” i.e., preventing hounds from wandering away from the pack.

germanic

Wite

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic, and Breton “*windos / *gwindos / gwyn > Gwenaël,” meaning “blessed and generous, white, fair.” Saint Gwen Teirbron was a Breton holy woman and wife of Saint Fragan who supposedly lived in the 6th century. Her epithet is Welsh for ‘(of the) three breasts.’ Gwyn ap Nudd is a Welsh mythological figure, the king of the Tylwyth Teg or “fair folk” and ruler of the Welsh Otherworld, Annwn. Described as a great warrior with a “blackened face,” Gwyn is intimately associated with the otherworld in medieval Welsh literature and is associated with the international tradition of the Wild Hunt. Saint Winwaloe was the founder and first abbot of Landévennec Abbey (literally “Lann of Venec”), also known as the monastery of Winwaloe. It was just south of Brest in Brittany, now part of France.

proto-brythonic

Wlph

This name derives from the Old Norse name “úlfr,” from the Ancient Germanic element “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names ending in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which was later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years.

germanic

Wogo

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wojt

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wole

This name is composed of two African (Yorùbá) elements: “Olú / Olú-Ọ̀rún,” meaning (ruler, God) plus “wọle,” meaning (enter, entered). The name means “God has come home; God has entered; wealth has come home.” Olòrún is the Yorùbá name given to one of the three manifestations of the Supreme God in the Yoruba pantheon. Olorun is the owner of the heavens and is commonly associated with the Sun. The vital energy of Olorun manifests in humans as Ashé, which is the life force that runs through all living things.

african (yorùbá)

Wolf

This name derives from the Old Norse name “úlfr,” from the Ancient Germanic element “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names ending in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which was later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years.

germanic

Wolt

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wood

Woodrow has initially been an English topographical surname. This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) pre-7th-Century “wudu” (wood, forest, grove, tree, timber), and “raw” (row, line), or a locational name from any of the various places named with the above elements. Other sources suggest the family name is descriptively originating as Woodroe or the border hedge as the clan consisted primarily of border guards at the English, Welsh, and Scottish borders. The name was made popular in part by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, whose mother’s maiden name was Woodrow.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wowa

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wuff

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wulf

This name derives from the Old Norse name “úlfr,” from the Ancient Germanic element “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names ending in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which was later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years.

germanic

Wutz

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wyot

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Wädi

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wädu

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wåge

This name derives from the Old Norse name and byname “vagn,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*wagnaz,” meaning “cart, wagon, carriage.”

old norse

Waage

This name derives from the Old Norse name and byname “vagn,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*wagnaz,” meaning “cart, wagon, carriage.”

old norse

Waard

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “ead / ēad” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “weard” (guard, defend). In turn, the name derives from two Germanic elements: “*audaz” plus “*warduz” (Proto-Germanic: *audwaroþō). It is one of the few Old English (Anglo-Saxon) names to gain popularity in other parts of Europe and beyond, for example, as Eduardo and Duarte in Spain and Portugal, respectively. Edward the Confessor (~1004–1066), son of Æthelred the Unready and Emma of Normandy, was one of the last Anglo-Saxon kings of England and is usually regarded as the last king of the House of Wessex, ruling from 1042 to 1066. Edward the Martyr (~962–978) was king of the English from 975 until he was murdered in 978. Edward was the eldest son of King Edgar but was not his father’s acknowledged heir.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wadim

This name derives from the Proto-Slavic “*vaditi > vȁditi (ва̏дити),” meaning “take out, draw (something from somewhere), to extract (ore, plants from the ground), to save (somebody from a difficulty).” According to another version, the name corresponds to the patronymic “Vadimovich,” or as a reduction of the Slavic name Vadimir, from the Slavic root “volod / vlad- (владь),” meaning “power, to rule.” St. Vadim was born to a prominent family in the Persian town of Bithlapet. Having distributed his riches, he built in the suburbs of the city a monastery which he dedicated to the archimandrite. In order to focus his thoughts on God and for more concentrated prayers, he sometimes departed to a neighboring desert mountain, and here he was once found worthy to have a vision of God.

slavic

Wafah

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

arabic

Waghn

This name derives from the Old Norse name and byname “vagn,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*wagnaz,” meaning “cart, wagon, carriage.”

old norse

Wahid

This name derives from the Arabic “Wāḥid,” meaning “unique, singular, alone, peerless.” al-Wāḥid is one of the 99 names of God in the Qur’an, which give rise to the Muslim theophoric names.

arabic

Walak

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Waldo

Waldo is a short form of Waldemar, Waldomar, Valdemar, Waldobert, and Waldhar. The name is of Old Church Slavonic, Slavic, and Germanic origin and comes from the following roots: (VOLODIMERU) (WALDOBERT) and (WALT-HARI).

germanic

Walek

Walek is a diminutive of Walenty, Walentyn, Walery, Waleriusz, and Walerian. The name is of Latin and Italic (Sabine) origin and comes from the following roots: (VĂLENTĪNUS) and (VĂLĔRĬUS).

latin

Walid

This name derives from the Arabic “walīd,” meaning “newborn,” from “walada,” meaning “to bear, to give birth, to beget, to produce, to bring forth.” Al-Walīd (668–715) was an Umayyad caliph who ruled from 705 until his death in 715.

arabic

Walko

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Wally

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Walti

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Waluś

Waluś is a diminutive of Walenty, Walentyn, Walery, Waleriusz, and Walerian. The name is of Latin and Italic (Sabine) origin and comes from the following roots: (VĂLENTĪNUS) and (VĂLĔRĬUS).

latin

Wando

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) from the Proto-Germanic “*wandrōną > wendel,” meaning “to wander, roam, hike, migrate.” 2) from the Proto-Germanic “*winidaz,” meaning “Wend, Slav.” A term used for a member of a Slavic people from the borders of Germany and Poland; a Sorb; a Kashub. A term used for Slavic peoples living anywhere in the vicinity of German-speaking areas. 3) From the Ancient Germanic “wand,” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk.” The Vandals, a large East Germanic tribe or group of tribes, first appear in history inhabiting present-day southern Poland. Still, some later moved in large numbers, including most notably the group which successively established kingdoms in Spain and then North Africa in the 5th-century.

germanic

Warin

This name derives from the Old High German “warin,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*warjaz,” meaning “the defender, the protector.” 1) Guarin was the chaplain (magister capellanus) and chancellor of Roger II of Sicily from about 1130 to his death, during the first decade of the Norman kingdom of Sicily. 2) Saint Guarinus of Sitten (French: Guérin) was Bishop of Sion. Guarinus was born in Pont-à-Mousson, France, around 1065, into a noble family.

germanic

Warre

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “ead / ēad” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “weard” (guard, defend). In turn, the name derives from two Germanic elements: “*audaz” plus “*warduz” (Proto-Germanic: *audwaroþō). It is one of the few Old English (Anglo-Saxon) names to gain popularity in other parts of Europe and beyond, for example, as Eduardo and Duarte in Spain and Portugal, respectively. Edward the Confessor (~1004–1066), son of Æthelred the Unready and Emma of Normandy, was one of the last Anglo-Saxon kings of England and is usually regarded as the last king of the House of Wessex, ruling from 1042 to 1066. Edward the Martyr (~962–978) was king of the English from 975 until he was murdered in 978. Edward was the eldest son of King Edgar but was not his father’s acknowledged heir.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Washi

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

japanese

Waska

This name derives from the Mycenaean Greek and Ancient Greek “(qa-si-re-u > gwasileus) > basileús ‎(βᾰσῐλεύς) basíleios (βασίλειος),” meaning “chief, master, king, lord, patron, kingly, royal.” Basiléus is a Greek term and title that has signified various types of monarchs in history. It is perhaps best known in English as a title used by the Byzantine emperors, but it also has a more extended history of use for people in authority and sovereigns in ancient Greece, as well as for the kings of modern Greece. Basil II was a Byzantine Emperor from the Macedonian dynasty who reigned from 10 January 976 to 15 December 1025. He was known in his time as Basil the Porphyrogenitus and Basil the Young to distinguish him from his supposed ancestor, Basil I the Macedonian. Saint Basil the Great was the Greek bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the early Christian church’s heresies, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea.

greek

Waske

This name derives from the Mycenaean Greek and Ancient Greek “(qa-si-re-u > gwasileus) > basileús ‎(βᾰσῐλεύς) basíleios (βασίλειος),” meaning “chief, master, king, lord, patron, kingly, royal.” Basiléus is a Greek term and title that has signified various types of monarchs in history. It is perhaps best known in English as a title used by the Byzantine emperors, but it also has a more extended history of use for people in authority and sovereigns in ancient Greece, as well as for the kings of modern Greece. Basil II was a Byzantine Emperor from the Macedonian dynasty who reigned from 10 January 976 to 15 December 1025. He was known in his time as Basil the Porphyrogenitus and Basil the Young to distinguish him from his supposed ancestor, Basil I the Macedonian. Saint Basil the Great was the Greek bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the early Christian church’s heresies, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea.

greek

Watse

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wayne

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “wægn / wægen,” meaning “wagon maker, wagon.” It is a male given name transferred from the surname. This name increases its popularity thanks to “Marion Robert Morrison,” better known by His stage name John Wayne.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Welfo

This name derives from the Old High German “Welf,” from the Germanic family name “Welfen,” meaning “puppy, give birth to a litter,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Welf I was Duke of Bavaria from 1070 to 1077 and from 1096 to his death. He was the first member of the Welf branch of the House of Este. In the genealogy of the Elder House of Welf, he is counted as Welf IV. Welfen is the German name of one of the oldest and most distinguished European families. The House of Welf (historically rendered in English as Guelf or Guelph) was a European dynasty that has included many German and British monarchs from the 11th to 20th-century and Emperor Ivan VI of Russia 18th-century.

germanic

Wella

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wemen

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Wemun

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Wetle

This name derives from the Old Norse “Vetrliði,” composed of two elements: “vetr / vintr” (winter) plus “lið” (army, men-at-arms, forces) or “líða” (to pass, go by). Allegedly it was used to mean “one-year-old bear,” literally “bear that has lived one winter” in Old Norse.

old norse

Whipp

This name derives from the Middle English “w(h)ippen,” from the Middle Dutch “wippen,” which in turn derives from the Middle Low German “wippe,” meaning “flap violently, swing, leap, dance, oscillate, a quick movement.” Whip (politics) is an official in a political party whose primary purpose is to ensure discipline in a legislature. The usage comes from the hunting term “whipping in,” i.e., preventing hounds from wandering away from the pack.

germanic

Wicek

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > vincens-entis > Vincentius,” meaning “conqueror, winner, who wins, winning over evil.” Therefore has a similar meaning to the Ancient Greek names Victor, Nicephorus, Nicetas, and Nike. Saint Vincent of Saragossa is the patron saint of Lisbon and Valencia. His feast day is 22 January in the Roman Catholic Church and Anglican Communion and 11 November in the Eastern Orthodox Churches. He was born at Huesca and martyred under Emperor Diocletian around the year 304.

latin

Wicke

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > victōria > victŏr,” meaning “conqueror, victory, (one who) conquers.” Victor is a masculine given name that has been used for centuries in numerous cultures and parts of the world. Victoria is a feminine first name. It is also used as a family name and is used as the female form corresponding to Victor. In Ancient Roman Religion, Victoria was the personified goddess of victory. She is the Roman equivalent of the Greek Goddess “Nike,” associated with “Bellona.” She was adapted from the Sabine agricultural Goddess Vacuna and had a temple on the Palatine hill. The Goddess “Vica Pota” was also sometimes identified with Victoria. In Ancient Roman religion, Vica Pota (Vincendi) was a Goddess whose shrine (Aedes) was located at the foot of the Velian Hill, on the site of the Domus of Publius Valerius Publicola. Pope Victor I (died 199) was a bishop of Rome, and hence a pope, in the late 2nd-century.

latin

Wicus

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > vincens-entis > Vincentius,” meaning “conqueror, winner, who wins, winning over evil.” Therefore has a similar meaning to the Ancient Greek names Victor, Nicephorus, Nicetas, and Nike. Saint Vincent of Saragossa is the patron saint of Lisbon and Valencia. His feast day is 22 January in the Roman Catholic Church and Anglican Communion and 11 November in the Eastern Orthodox Churches. He was born at Huesca and martyred under Emperor Diocletian around the year 304.

latin

Widar

This name derives from the Old Norse “Víðarr.” The theories include: 1) Name composed of two elements: “víðr” (wide, broad, extensive), from the Proto-Norse “*wīda-“(wide) plus “*hariaR” (warrior, leader of an army). 2) Name composed of two elements: “*wiðu-” (forest as a borderline), plus “*hariaR” (warrior, leader of an army). In Norse mythology, Víðarr (Old Norse, possibly “wide ruler,” sometimes anglicized as Vidar, Vithar, Vidarr, and Vitharr), is a god among the Æsir associated with a vengeance. Víðarr is described as the son of Odin and the jötunn Gríðr and is foretold to avenge his father’s death by killing the wolf Fenrir at Ragnarök, a conflict which he is described as surviving.

old norse

Widek

This name derives from the Hebrew “Yàdad > Dâvid / Dâvı̂yd > Dāwīḏ,” meaning “beloved, loved by God.” David (~1040–970 BC), son of Jesse, was the second king of Israel during the first half of the 10th century BC. His occurrences, dating back to the Jewish era, are told in the first and second book of Samuel, in the first book of Kings, and the first book of Chronicles. David’s life is of particular importance in the three Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In Judaism, David was a member of Judah’s tribe, the king of Israel, and the Messiah’s descendant. Saint David (Welsh: Dewi Sant; ~500–589) was a Christian monk and Welsh bishop, venerated as a saint by both the Anglican Church and the Catholic Church. He is the patron saint of Wales.

hebrew

Wigge

This name is a diminutive of Victor and the Old Norse short form of names containing the element (víg-). It is of Old Norse and Latin origin and comes from the following roots (VÍGR) (VǪGGR) and (VICTOR).

latin

Wiggo

This name is a diminutive of Victor and the Old Norse short form of names containing the element (víg-). It is of Old Norse and Latin origin and comes from the following roots (VÍGR) (VǪGGR) and (VICTOR).

latin

Wigil

This name derives from the Old Norse “VígulfR,” composed of two elements: “víg / vígr / viga” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “ulfr” (wolf). In turn, the name means “fighting wolf.”

old norse

Wikus

This name derives from the Old High German “Chlodowich and Chlodovech,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz,” meaning (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “wīg,” meaning (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight). The name means “glorious in the battle, famous warrior.” Directly from the root of the name derives, for example, “Ludwig” and from “Chlodovech,” for example, derive the masculine form “Clovis and Clodoveo.” Clovis I, “Latinized form Chlodovech,” was king of the Franks and ruler of much of Gaul from 481 to 511, a crucial period during the transformation of the Roman Empire into Europe. His dynasty, the Merovingians, survived more than 200 years, until the rise of the Carolingians in the 8th-century. While he was not the first Frankish king, he was the kingdom’s political and religious founder.

germanic

Wilee

This name is composed of two elements: from the mid-12 century English “wile, wil,” meaning (wile, artifice, trick, ruse, feint, stratagem, maneuver, dodge) plus from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “lēah,” meaning (woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). Perhaps ultimately related to Old English “wicca,” meaning “wizard.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wilek

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wiley

This name is composed of two elements: from the mid-12 century English “wile, wil,” meaning (wile, artifice, trick, ruse, feint, stratagem, maneuver, dodge) plus from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “lēah,” meaning (woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). Perhaps ultimately related to Old English “wicca,” meaning “wizard.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wilhe

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilho

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilke

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilko

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wille

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willi

Willi is a short form of William, Wilhelmus, Wilbert and Willoughby. It is of Germanic and Old Norse origin and comes from the following roots: (WILLAHELM) (*WILJÔ *BERHTAZ) and (WILIG *BÝR).

germanic

Wilmi

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Wiluś

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wimpy

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wiska

This name derives from the Mycenaean Greek and Ancient Greek “(qa-si-re-u > gwasileus) > basileús ‎(βᾰσῐλεύς) basíleios (βασίλειος),” meaning “chief, master, king, lord, patron, kingly, royal.” Basiléus is a Greek term and title that has signified various types of monarchs in history. It is perhaps best known in English as a title used by the Byzantine emperors, but it also has a more extended history of use for people in authority and sovereigns in ancient Greece, as well as for the kings of modern Greece. Basil II was a Byzantine Emperor from the Macedonian dynasty who reigned from 10 January 976 to 15 December 1025. He was known in his time as Basil the Porphyrogenitus and Basil the Young to distinguish him from his supposed ancestor, Basil I the Macedonian. Saint Basil the Great was the Greek bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the early Christian church’s heresies, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea.

greek

Wisse

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wīsaz” (wise, knowledgeable, shrewd, cunning, smart) plus “*maru-” (famous). In turn, the name means “the one who is famous for his knowledge and wisdom.”

germanic

Witek

Witek is a diminutive of Witold and Wiktor. The name is of Baltic, Germanic and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (VYTAUTAS) (WIDALD) and (VICTŎR).

germanic

Witke

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Witto

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Wituś

Wituś is a diminutive of Witold and Wiktor. The name is of Baltic, Germanic and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (VYTAUTAS) (WIDALD) and (VICTŎR).

germanic

Wlpho

This name derives from the Old Norse name “úlfr,” from the Ancient Germanic element “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names ending in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which was later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years.

germanic

Wocka

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wodan

This name derives from the Germanic “*Wōđanaz / *Wōđinaz,” meaning “poetry, inspiration.” Woden or Wodan is a principal deity of Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic polytheism. Together with his Norse counterpart Odin, Woden represents a development of the Proto-Germanic god *Wōdanaz. Although little is known about the pre-Christian religion of the Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic peoples, little is known about Norse paganism. Woden is attested in English, German, and Dutch places, as well as in various texts and archaeological evidence from the early Middle Ages.

germanic

Woffe

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Woffi

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Woifi

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wojan

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojko

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wolfe

Wolfe is a short form of Wolfgang, Wolfram, and Wolfhard. It is of Germanic origin and comes from the following roots: (*-WULFAZ) (VULFGANG) (VULFERAM) and (WOLFHARD).

germanic

Wolff

This name derives from the Old Norse name “úlfr,” from the Ancient Germanic element “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names ending in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which was later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years.

germanic

Wolfi

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolfo

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolle

Wolle is a diminutive of William and Wolfgang. The name is of Germanic origin and comes from the following roots: (WILLAHELM) and (WULFGANG).

germanic

Wolli

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wollo

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolly

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Woody

Woodrow has initially been an English topographical surname. This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) pre-7th-Century “wudu” (wood, forest, grove, tree, timber), and “raw” (row, line), or a locational name from any of the various places named with the above elements. Other sources suggest the family name is descriptively originating as Woodroe or the border hedge as the clan consisted primarily of border guards at the English, Welsh, and Scottish borders. The name was made popular in part by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, whose mother’s maiden name was Woodrow.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wotan

This name derives from the Germanic “*Wōđanaz / *Wōđinaz,” meaning “poetry, inspiration.” Woden or Wodan is a principal deity of Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic polytheism. Together with his Norse counterpart Odin, Woden represents a development of the Proto-Germanic god *Wōdanaz. Although little is known about the pre-Christian religion of the Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic peoples, little is known about Norse paganism. Woden is attested in English, German, and Dutch places, as well as in various texts and archaeological evidence from the early Middle Ages.

germanic

Wuffa

This name derives from the Old Norse name “úlfr,” from the Ancient Germanic element “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names ending in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which was later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years.

germanic

Wuffi

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wulff

This name derives from the Old Norse name “úlfr,” from the Ancient Germanic element “*-wulfaz,” meaning “wolf.” Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names ending in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which was later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years.

germanic

Wyatt

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Wylie

This name is composed of two elements: from the mid-12 century English “wile, wil,” meaning (wile, artifice, trick, ruse, feint, stratagem, maneuver, dodge) plus from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “lēah,” meaning (woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). Perhaps ultimately related to Old English “wicca,” meaning “wizard.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wytse

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Wågne

This name derives from the Old Norse name and byname “vagn,” which in turn derives from the Ancient Germanic “*wagnaz,” meaning “cart, wagon, carriage.”

old norse

Wötke

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wōden

This name derives from the Germanic “*Wōđanaz / *Wōđinaz,” meaning “poetry, inspiration.” Woden or Wodan is a principal deity of Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic polytheism. Together with his Norse counterpart Odin, Woden represents a development of the Proto-Germanic god *Wōdanaz. Although little is known about the pre-Christian religion of the Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic peoples, little is known about Norse paganism. Woden is attested in English, German, and Dutch places, as well as in various texts and archaeological evidence from the early Middle Ages.

germanic

Wacław

This name derives from the Slavic “*vetye- sláva > Vecheslavu / Vyacheslav (Вечеславъ),” meaning “having greater glory.” 1) Wenceslaus I was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, purportedly in a plot by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel. His martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness, resulting in his being elevated to Sainthood, posthumously declared King, and seen as the patron saint of the Czech state. 2) Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia (1361–1419) was, by inheritance, King of Bohemia from 1363 and by-election, German King (formally King of the Romans) from 1376.

slavic

Wagner

This name derives from the Germanic surname “Waganari,” meaning “wagonmaker, wagon driver” which in turn from the Middle High German “wagen,” meaning “cart’, wagon.” This common occupational surname was often given to one who transported produce or other goods via high-sided wagons or carts. Among some German populations, especially the Pennsylvania Germans, Wagner also denoted a wagonmaker, wainwright, or cartwright.

germanic

Waheed

This name derives from the Arabic “Wāḥid,” meaning “unique, singular, alone, peerless.” al-Wāḥid is one of the 99 names of God in the Qur’an, which give rise to the Muslim theophoric names.

arabic

Waldek

This name derives from the Old Church Slavonic “Volodiměrŭ (Володимѣръ),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, be in possession of, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “to rule with greatness, of great power, ruler of the world/peace/people.” This name is now widespread throughout all Slavic nations. It is also a common name in former Soviet non-Slavic countries where Christianity is practiced, such as Armenia. Volodymyr Sviatoslavich the Great (Old East Slavic: Володимѣръ Свѧтославичь) was a prince of Rus, grand prince of Kiev, and ruler of Kievan Rus’ from 980 to 1015. Max Vasmer explains the name as meaning “regal.” Folk etymology interprets the meaning as “person of the people” or “the one with peace on one side.”

slavic

Walden

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

english literature

Walder

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Walduś

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Waleed

This name derives from the Arabic “walīd,” meaning “newborn,” from “walada,” meaning “to bear, to give birth, to beget, to produce, to bring forth.” Al-Walīd (668–715) was an Umayyad caliph who ruled from 705 until his death in 715.

arabic

Walery

This name derives from the Latin “vălēre > vălĕrĭus” which in turn derives from the Italic (Sabine) “volesus / volusus,” meaning “to be strong, be healthy, strong, vigorous and brave.” The holy women martyrs Kyriake, Kaleria (Valeria), and Mary lived in Palestinian Caesarea during the persecution under Diocletian in the 3rd-century. Having received instruction in the Christian Faith, they abandoned paganism, settled in a solitary place, and spent their lives in prayer, imploring the Lord that the persecution against Christians would end after the Faith of Christ would shine throughout the entire world. Valerian, also known as Valerian, the Elder, was Roman Emperor from 253 to 259. He was taken captive by Persian king Shapur I after the Battle of Edessa, becoming the only Roman Emperor who was captured as a prisoner of war, causing instability in the Empire.

Walesz

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Walisz

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Walker

Walker is a surname of Anglo-Scottish or German origins. This name may signify either a fuller or an officer whose duty consisted of walking or inspecting a particular space of forest ground. This name derives from the Old English “wealcan,” meaning “to walk,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Germanic “*walkaną,” meaning “to move around, to revolve.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Walric

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Walton

This name means “city of streams or city of wood.” The most important comes from one of the various parishes called “Walton,” or from a medieval village now disappeared in the south-east of the country called “Wolton.” The name probably derives from the Germanic “wald,” which means “forest,” plus a topographical suffix “tun,” which means “a farm, a village, a town.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wammes

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Iōánnēs (Ἰωάννης),” which in turn, is a form of the Hebrew name “Yôchânân / Yehochanan” meaning “graced by Yahweh, God is gracious.” There are numerous forms of the name in different languages. This name is part of the most massive etymological root of names made up of more than five hundred variations among male and female in different languages. The name “John” had gained popularity among Jews in Judea and Galilee by the time the area became a province of the Roman Empire in 6 A.D. John Hyrcanus was the first king of the Hasmonean Dynasty and was the nephew of Judas Maccabeus. It was the given name of Yochanan ben Zechariah, a Jewish prophet known in English as John the Baptist.

hebrew

Wandal

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) from the Proto-Germanic “*wandrōną > wendel,” meaning “to wander, roam, hike, migrate.” 2) from the Proto-Germanic “*winidaz,” meaning “Wend, Slav.” A term used for a member of a Slavic people from the borders of Germany and Poland; a Sorb; a Kashub. A term used for Slavic peoples living anywhere in the vicinity of German-speaking areas. 3) From the Ancient Germanic “wand,” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk.” The Vandals, a large East Germanic tribe or group of tribes, first appear in history inhabiting present-day southern Poland. Still, some later moved in large numbers, including most notably the group which successively established kingdoms in Spain and then North Africa in the 5th-century.

germanic

Wannes

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Iōánnēs (Ἰωάννης),” which in turn, is a form of the Hebrew name “Yôchânân / Yehochanan” meaning “graced by Yahweh, God is gracious.” There are numerous forms of the name in different languages. This name is part of the most massive etymological root of names made up of more than five hundred variations among male and female in different languages. The name “John” had gained popularity among Jews in Judea and Galilee by the time the area became a province of the Roman Empire in 6 A.D. John Hyrcanus was the first king of the Hasmonean Dynasty and was the nephew of Judas Maccabeus. It was the given name of Yochanan ben Zechariah, a Jewish prophet known in English as John the Baptist.

hebrew

Warmud

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

germanic

Warner

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Warren

This name comes from an English surname, which in turn derives from the Norman-French “Warenne” (village of “La Varrene” in the department of Seine-Maritime). The word “warrene” meaning “animal enclosure (a warren or land set aside for breeding game).” The surname Warren, and after the given name, was introduced into England and Scotland after the Conquest of 1066. William de Warenne († 1088) was a Norman nobleman who has created Earl of Surrey under William II ‘Rufus.’ He was one of the few who was documented to have been with William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 1920, the name Warren ranked 39th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys.

old french

Waruna

Varuna was a god of the sky, water, the celestial ocean, and a god of law and the underworld. A crocodile named Makara is his mount. In Hindu mythology, Varuna continued to be considered the god of all forms of the water element, particularly the oceans. As chief of the Adityas, Varuna has aspects of a solar deity, though, when opposed to Mitra (Vedic term for Surya), he is instead associated with the night and Mitra with the daylight.

sanskrit

Wasill

This name derives from the Mycenaean Greek and Ancient Greek “(qa-si-re-u > gwasileus) > basileús ‎(βᾰσῐλεύς) basíleios (βασίλειος),” meaning “chief, master, king, lord, patron, kingly, royal.” Basiléus is a Greek term and title that has signified various types of monarchs in history. It is perhaps best known in English as a title used by the Byzantine emperors, but it also has a more extended history of use for people in authority and sovereigns in ancient Greece, as well as for the kings of modern Greece. Basil II was a Byzantine Emperor from the Macedonian dynasty who reigned from 10 January 976 to 15 December 1025. He was known in his time as Basil the Porphyrogenitus and Basil the Young to distinguish him from his supposed ancestor, Basil I the Macedonian. Saint Basil the Great was the Greek bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the early Christian church’s heresies, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea.

greek

Wasils

This name derives from the Mycenaean Greek and Ancient Greek “(qa-si-re-u > gwasileus) > basileús ‎(βᾰσῐλεύς) basíleios (βασίλειος),” meaning “chief, master, king, lord, patron, kingly, royal.” Basiléus is a Greek term and title that has signified various types of monarchs in history. It is perhaps best known in English as a title used by the Byzantine emperors, but it also has a more extended history of use for people in authority and sovereigns in ancient Greece, as well as for the kings of modern Greece. Basil II was a Byzantine Emperor from the Macedonian dynasty who reigned from 10 January 976 to 15 December 1025. He was known in his time as Basil the Porphyrogenitus and Basil the Young to distinguish him from his supposed ancestor, Basil I the Macedonian. Saint Basil the Great was the Greek bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the early Christian church’s heresies, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea.

greek

Wasswa

first of twins

african (oluganda)

Wawayn

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic and Welsh articulated root: “*windos / *gwindos > gwalch gwyn > gawain.” It is the Late Medieval form of the name “Gawain,” which in turn is believed to have originated from the Welsh name “Walchgwn,” meaning “white hawk.” Kenneth Jackson suggested the name evolved from an early Common Brittonic name “*Ualcos Magesos,” meaning “Hawk of the plain.” Sir Gawain and the green knight is an epic poem connected with King Arthur’s roundtable. The form Gavin survived in Scotland and spread to other English-speaking countries in the 1960s. Gawain is King Arthur’s nephew and a knight of the round table in the Arthurian legend. Under the name Gwalchmei, he appears very early in the legend’s development, being mentioned in some of the earliest Welsh Arthurian sources.

proto-brythonic

Waylon

This name derives from the Germanic and Old Norse “*Wēla-nandaz > *Wēlandaz,” meaning “brave in battle, a courageous fighter.” The name is related to the Germanic “Wiolant” translated as “Wayland. In Germanic and Norse mythology, Wayland the Smith is a legendary master blacksmith. In Old Norse sources, Völundr appears in Völundarkviða, a poem in the Poetic Edda, and Þiðrekssaga, and his legend is also depicted on the Ardre image stone VIII. In Old English sources, he appears in Deor, Waldere, and Beowulf, and the legend is depicted on the Franks Casket. He is mentioned in the German poems about Dietrich von Bern as the Father of Witige.

germanic

Wedast

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) From Vedastus, the Latinized form of a Gaulish given name, which derives from a Germanic given name of unknown origin. 2) From the Indo-Germanic “*ghosti-s” (stranger), Old High German “gast” (guest). In French, Saint Vedast and Saint Gaston († ~540) was an early bishop in the Frankish realm. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on February 6.

germanic

Weheyd

This name derives from the Arabic “Wāḥid,” meaning “unique, singular, alone, peerless.” al-Wāḥid is one of the 99 names of God in the Qur’an, which give rise to the Muslim theophoric names.

arabic

Weigel

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

germanic

Weikko

This name derives from the Finnish “veli,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Finnic ”*velji,” meaning “brother.” It is cognate with Northern Sami “viellja,” Karelian “velj,” Estonian “veli.”

finnish

Wekesa

born during harvest

african (luhya)

Weldon

hill near a spring

old english (anglo-saxon)

Welmus

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wemmen

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Wemmun

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Wemund

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Wenzel

This name derives from the Slavic “*vetye- sláva > Vecheslavu / Vyacheslav (Вечеславъ),” meaning “having greater glory.” 1) Wenceslaus I was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, purportedly in a plot by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel. His martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness, resulting in his being elevated to Sainthood, posthumously declared King, and seen as the patron saint of the Czech state. 2) Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia (1361–1419) was, by inheritance, King of Bohemia from 1363 and by-election, German King (formally King of the Romans) from 1376.

slavic

Werner

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Werter

This name derives from the Old High German “Werdheri,” composed of two elements: “*warduz” (guard, defend, protect) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The Sorrows of Young Werther (German: Die Leiden des jungen Werthers) is an epistolary and loosely autobiographical novel by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, first published in 1774; a revised edition of the novel was published in 1787. Werther was a remarkable novel of the Sturm und Drang period in German literature and influenced the later Romantic literary movement. Werther is a town in the district of Gütersloh in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The name-day is celebrated on November 1, the Feast of All Saints.

germanic

Wesley

This name derives from Several places in England. The name derives from the Proto-Germanic “*wes-t” (west) and the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing (especially one used for farming), a meadow). The “wes” portion of the name refers to the Western cardinal direction, while the word “ley” refers to a field, pasture, or other clearings in a forest. Thus the name’s origin refers to an area to the west.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wessel

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Weston

This given name derives from Anglo-Saxon surname “Westone,” composed of two elements: from the Proto-Germanic “*wes-t” (west), from the short form “*we-“ (to go down) plus “tūn” (enclosure, settlement, town). This topographical name is denoting residence on a farm to the west of a village.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wetzel

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Wibert

is name derives from the Old High German “Guibert,” composed of two elements: “*widu-” (forest, wood, tree) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). In turn, the name means “the shimmering forest.” 1) Saint Guibert (892–962) is the founder of Gembloux Abbey, in Gembloux (Namur, Belgium). He was canonized in 1211. The name day is traditionally celebrated on May 23rd. 2) Maistre Guibert Kaukesel (~1230–1255) was a trouvère from Arras, where he is named as a canon in a document of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame in 1250. His title indicates he was probably a Master of Arts. He was a member of the literary circle active at Arras mid-century. 3) Guibert de Nogent (~1055–1124) was a Benedictine historian, theologian, and author of autobiographical memoirs.

germanic

Wibran

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wibren

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wictor

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > victōria > victŏr,” meaning “conqueror, victory, (one who) conquers.” Victor is a masculine given name that has been used for centuries in numerous cultures and parts of the world. Victoria is a feminine first name. It is also used as a family name and is used as the female form corresponding to Victor. In Ancient Roman Religion, Victoria was the personified goddess of victory. She is the Roman equivalent of the Greek Goddess “Nike,” associated with “Bellona.” She was adapted from the Sabine agricultural Goddess Vacuna and had a temple on the Palatine hill. The Goddess “Vica Pota” was also sometimes identified with Victoria. In Ancient Roman religion, Vica Pota (Vincendi) was a Goddess whose shrine (Aedes) was located at the foot of the Velian Hill, on the site of the Domus of Publius Valerius Publicola. Pope Victor I (died 199) was a bishop of Rome, and hence a pope, in the late 2nd-century.

latin

Wicław

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: A name of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vit(o)-” (lord, master) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “The Lord who has glory and honor.”

slavic

Wietje

This name derives from the Old High German “Chlodowich and Chlodovech,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz,” meaning (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “wīg,” meaning (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight). The name means “glorious in the battle, famous warrior.” Directly from the root of the name derives, for example, “Ludwig” and from “Chlodovech,” for example, derive the masculine form “Clovis and Clodoveo.” Clovis I, “Latinized form Chlodovech,” was king of the Franks and ruler of much of Gaul from 481 to 511, a crucial period during the transformation of the Roman Empire into Europe. His dynasty, the Merovingians, survived more than 200 years, until the rise of the Carolingians in the 8th-century. While he was not the first Frankish king, he was the kingdom’s political and religious founder.

germanic

Wietse

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Wietze

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Wigert

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Wigmar

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*maru-” (famous). In turn, the name means “the one who is famous in battle.”

germanic

Wigulf

This name derives from the Old Norse “VígulfR,” composed of two elements: “víg / vígr / viga” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “ulfr” (wolf). In turn, the name means “fighting wolf.”

old norse

Wijnie

This name derives from the Old High German “Baldewin,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave, bold, able-bodied) plus “*-winiz” (friend). In turn, the name means “bold friend, powerful friendship.” Baldwin II of Courtenay was the last emperor of the Latin Empire of Constantinople. He was born in Constantinople, a younger son of Yolanda of Flanders, sister of the first two emperors, Baldwin I and Henry of Flanders.

germanic

Wiking

The name derives from the Old Norse “víking,” composed of two elements: “vík” (inlet, cove, fjord, small creek) plus “-ing” (one belonging to, one who frequents). Viking was one of the Scandinavian seafaring warriors that raided (and then settled) the British Isles and other parts of Europe in the 8th to the 11th centuries and, according to many historians, were the first Europeans to reach North America. The Old English or Anglo-Frisian form, existing therein since at least the eighth century), could also have been derived from or influenced by Old English “wīc” (camp, dwelling), on account of the temporary encampments which were often a prominent feature of the Vikings’ raids.

old norse

Wiktor

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > victōria > victŏr,” meaning “conqueror, victory, (one who) conquers.” Victor is a masculine given name that has been used for centuries in numerous cultures and parts of the world. Victoria is a feminine first name. It is also used as a family name and is used as the female form corresponding to Victor. In Ancient Roman Religion, Victoria was the personified goddess of victory. She is the Roman equivalent of the Greek Goddess “Nike,” associated with “Bellona.” She was adapted from the Sabine agricultural Goddess Vacuna and had a temple on the Palatine hill. The Goddess “Vica Pota” was also sometimes identified with Victoria. In Ancient Roman religion, Vica Pota (Vincendi) was a Goddess whose shrine (Aedes) was located at the foot of the Velian Hill, on the site of the Domus of Publius Valerius Publicola. Pope Victor I (died 199) was a bishop of Rome, and hence a pope, in the late 2nd-century.

latin

Wilfrið

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilgot

This name derives from the Swedish “Willgott,” composed of two Old Norse elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*gudą / *gadaną / *gōdaz” (god, deity, divine being / to unite, be associated, suit, right). The Germanic name element has two different meanings: (1) ‘god’ and (2) ‘good,’ which are impossible to distinguish.

germanic

Wilhem

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wiljam

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilkie

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilkin

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willas

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) name “Willehad,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*chathu” (battle). Saint Willehad of Bremen (Willehadus, Willihad) was a Christian missionary and the Bishop of Bremen from 787. Willehad was born in Northumbria and probably received his education at York under Saint Egbert.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Willem

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willis

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willum

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willus

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilmar

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Wilmer

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Wilmot

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilmǣr

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Wilson

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wimpie

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wimund

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Winfrið

This name means a friend of peace, the one who brings peace. The name derives from Old English (Anglo-Saxon) root” wine frið,” which in turn derives from Old High German name “Winfried,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). Saint Winifred or Saint Winefride was a 7th-century Welsh Christian woman, around whom many historical legends have formed. A healing spring at the traditional site of her death is now a shrine and pilgrimage site called St Winefride’s Well in Holywell, Flintshire, Wales known as the Lourdes of Wales.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winton

enclosure belonging to WINE

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wintra

This name derives from the Old English word “wintra,” the dative singular form of (winter), which in turn derives from the Proto-Germanic “*wentruz,” concerning the Proto-Indo-European “*wódr̥,” meaning “water.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wissel

This name derives from the Hungarian (Magyar) and Romanian “Vecel > vețel,” a commune in Hunedoara County, Romania. Saint Vicelinus (1090–1154) was a German bishop of Oldenburg in Holstein who was considered Holstein’s apostle. In the Middle Ages, Veţel was a Hungarian settlement. Romanians also settled here in the 15th-century, and a Romanian quarter was built. Since the 16th-century, the place is inhabited almost exclusively by Romanians.

hungarian (magyar)

Wisław

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vse (все)” (all, everybody) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “all celebrating, all glory.” Vseslav of Polotsk or Vseslav Bryachislavich (~1039–1101), was the most famous ruler of Polotsk and was briefly Grand Prince of Kiev in 1068–1069.

slavic

Witold

This name derives from the Lithuanian “Vytautas” composed of two elements: “vyti” (chase) plus “tauta” (the people). In turn, the name means “people who speak” or “conducive to the people.” It is also possible that it is a name of Germanic origin, which means “ruling the forest.” This name appears in Polish documents in the fourteenth century, and it was recorded as Witołt, Witowd, and Witold. As a baptismal name, it only began to be widely used in the 19th-century, perhaps influenced by Jozef Ignacy Kraszewski’s historical novel. Vytautas Didysis was one of the most famous rulers of medieval Lithuania. Vytautas was the ruler (1392–1430) of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which chiefly encompassed the Lithuanians and Ruthenians.

germanic

Witowd

This name derives from the Lithuanian “Vytautas” composed of two elements: “vyti” (chase) plus “tauta” (the people). In turn, the name means “people who speak” or “conducive to the people.” It is also possible that it is a name of Germanic origin, which means “ruling the forest.” This name appears in Polish documents in the fourteenth century, and it was recorded as Witołt, Witowd, and Witold. As a baptismal name, it only began to be widely used in the 19th-century, perhaps influenced by Jozef Ignacy Kraszewski’s historical novel. Vytautas Didysis was one of the most famous rulers of medieval Lithuania. Vytautas was the ruler (1392–1430) of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which chiefly encompassed the Lithuanians and Ruthenians.

germanic

Witołt

This name derives from the Lithuanian “Vytautas” composed of two elements: “vyti” (chase) plus “tauta” (the people). In turn, the name means “people who speak” or “conducive to the people.” It is also possible that it is a name of Germanic origin, which means “ruling the forest.” This name appears in Polish documents in the fourteenth century, and it was recorded as Witołt, Witowd, and Witold. As a baptismal name, it only began to be widely used in the 19th-century, perhaps influenced by Jozef Ignacy Kraszewski’s historical novel. Vytautas Didysis was one of the most famous rulers of medieval Lithuania. Vytautas was the ruler (1392–1430) of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which chiefly encompassed the Lithuanians and Ruthenians.

germanic

Wittus

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Witzel

This name derives from the Hungarian (Magyar) and Romanian “Vecel > vețel,” a commune in Hunedoara County, Romania. Saint Vicelinus (1090–1154) was a German bishop of Oldenburg in Holstein who was considered Holstein’s apostle. In the Middle Ages, Veţel was a Hungarian settlement. Romanians also settled here in the 15th-century, and a Romanian quarter was built. Since the 16th-century, the place is inhabited almost exclusively by Romanians.

hungarian (magyar)

Wizlaw

This name derives from the Slavic “*vetye- sláva > Vecheslavu / Vyacheslav (Вечеславъ),” meaning “having greater glory.” 1) Wenceslaus I was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, purportedly in a plot by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel. His martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness, resulting in his being elevated to Sainthood, posthumously declared King, and seen as the patron saint of the Czech state. 2) Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia (1361–1419) was, by inheritance, King of Bohemia from 1363 and by-election, German King (formally King of the Romans) from 1376.

slavic

Wlodek

This name is a diminutive of Włodzimierz, Władysław and Włodzsiław. It is of Old Church Slavonic and Slavic origin and comes from the following roots: (VOLODIMĚRŬ) and (VLAD- SLÁVA).

slavic

Woetke

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wogtke

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Woifal

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Woifeh

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Woifei

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Woitke

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojcio

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojmir

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “voj (вој)” (war) plus “*mir" (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “the one who brings peace where war lies, the one who is fighting for peace.”

slavic

Wojtas

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojtek

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojtuś

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wolfal

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolmar

This name is a variant form of Volkmar and the Low German form of Waldemar. It is of Germanic and Slavic origin and comes from the following roots: (VOLKMAR) and (VOLODIMĚRŬ).

germanic

Wolmer

This name is a variant form of Volkmar and the Low German form of Waldemar. It is of Germanic and Slavic origin and comes from the following roots: (VOLKMAR) and (VOLODIMĚRŬ).

germanic

Wolmir

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “*voliti > woleć” (to prefer) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “one who prefers peace.”

slavic

Wolter

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wondie

This name is of Ethiopian origin. Wondie is a male personal name. It is an abbreviation of Wondatir, an expression in Tigrinya (an ancient Ethiopic language) which literally is made up of Wond meaning “man,” and Atir meaning “fence.” However, the name-giver actually means to wish that the new child shall be a strong and trustworthy man who can defend others.

Woodie

Woodrow has initially been an English topographical surname. This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) pre-7th-Century “wudu” (wood, forest, grove, tree, timber), and “raw” (row, line), or a locational name from any of the various places named with the above elements. Other sources suggest the family name is descriptively originating as Woodroe or the border hedge as the clan consisted primarily of border guards at the English, Welsh, and Scottish borders. The name was made popular in part by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, whose mother’s maiden name was Woodrow.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wosław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vojislav (Војислав),” composed of two elements: “voj (вој)” (war, warrior) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “one who wins fame in the wars, famous warrior.” Stefan Vojislav (~1018–1043) was the Prince of Duklja from 1040 to 1043. He had since 1018 been a Toparch in Byzantine vassalage, and, in 1034, he led an unsuccessful revolt that landed him in prison at Constantinople.

slavic

Wouter

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Woutje

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Woytke

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wulfrà

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wulkan

This name derives from the Latin “Vulcānus,” of Etruscan origin. In ancient Roman religion and myth, Vulcan was the god of both beneficial and hindering fire, including the fire of volcanoes. Vulcan is often described with a blacksmith’s hammer. The Vulcanalia was the annual festival held on August 23 in his honor. His Greek counterpart is Hephaestus, the god of fire and smithery. In the Etruscan religion, he is identified with Sethlans, the god of fire, the forge, and metalworking.

latin

Wulmar

This name derives from the Old High German “Volkmar, Wulmar,” composed of two elements: “*fulką > folk” (people, nation, race) plus “*maru-” (famous). In turn, the name means “famous among the people.” The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 20 in memory of Saint Vulmarus, Abbot of Boulogne-sur-Mer in France, patron saint of coachmen, who lived in the 9th-century.

germanic

Wulmer

This name derives from the Old High German “Volkmar, Wulmar,” composed of two elements: “*fulką > folk” (people, nation, race) plus “*maru-” (famous). In turn, the name means “famous among the people.” The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 20 in memory of Saint Vulmarus, Abbot of Boulogne-sur-Mer in France, patron saint of coachmen, who lived in the 9th-century.

germanic

Wuotan

This name derives from the Germanic “*Wōđanaz / *Wōđinaz,” meaning “poetry, inspiration.” Woden or Wodan is a principal deity of Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic polytheism. Together with his Norse counterpart Odin, Woden represents a development of the Proto-Germanic god *Wōdanaz. Although little is known about the pre-Christian religion of the Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic peoples, little is known about Norse paganism. Woden is attested in English, German, and Dutch places, as well as in various texts and archaeological evidence from the early Middle Ages.

germanic

Wybert

This name derives from the Old High German “Wigbert,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). In turn, the name means “shining fighter, bright warrior.” Saint Wigbert, born in Wessex around 675, was an Anglo-Saxon Benedictine monk and a missionary and disciple of Saint Boniface who traveled with the latter in Frisia and northern and central Germany to convert the local tribes to Christianity. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on August 13.

germanic

Wybran

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wybren

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wymond

This name derives from the Old High German “Wigmund,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle) plus “mund” (protection, defense). In turn, the name means “shining fighter, bright warrior.” Wigmund may have briefly reigned in Mercia (one of the kingdoms of the Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy) in about 840, in succession to his father, Wiglaf of Mercia.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wyndam

This name derives from the name of the town of Wymondham, meaning “home belonging to Wigmund,” from the given name Wigmund combined with the Old English “ham,” meaning “home, settlement.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wystan

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Wigstan,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle) plus “stān” (stone). In turn, the name means “the fighter as strong as the stone, the stone of the battle.” Wigstan († ~840), also known as Saint Wystan, was the son of Wigmund of Mercia and Ælfflæd, daughter of King Ceolwulf I of Mercia.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wærner

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Wēland

This name derives from the Germanic and Old Norse “*Wēla-nandaz > *Wēlandaz,” meaning “brave in battle, a courageous fighter.” The name is related to the Germanic “Wiolant” translated as “Wayland. In Germanic and Norse mythology, Wayland the Smith is a legendary master blacksmith. In Old Norse sources, Völundr appears in Völundarkviða, a poem in the Poetic Edda, and Þiðrekssaga, and his legend is also depicted on the Ardre image stone VIII. In Old English sources, he appears in Deor, Waldere, and Beowulf, and the legend is depicted on the Franks Casket. He is mentioned in the German poems about Dietrich von Bern as the Father of Witige.

germanic

Władek

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Właduś

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Włodek

This name is a diminutive of Włodzimierz, Władysław and Włodzsiław. It is of Old Church Slavonic and Slavic origin and comes from the following roots: (VOLODIMĚRŬ) and (VLAD- SLÁVA).

slavic

Walarih

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Walaryk

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Walbert

This name derives from the Old High German name “Waldobert,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Saint Gaubert, Count of Hainaut, (Latin: Waldebertus), was a Belgian count of the seventh century and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 2.

germanic

Walczek

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Waldhar

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Waldzio

This name derives from the Old Church Slavonic “Volodiměrŭ (Володимѣръ),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, be in possession of, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “to rule with greatness, of great power, ruler of the world/peace/people.” This name is now widespread throughout all Slavic nations. It is also a common name in former Soviet non-Slavic countries where Christianity is practiced, such as Armenia. Volodymyr Sviatoslavich the Great (Old East Slavic: Володимѣръ Свѧтославичь) was a prince of Rus, grand prince of Kiev, and ruler of Kievan Rus’ from 980 to 1015. Max Vasmer explains the name as meaning “regal.” Folk etymology interprets the meaning as “person of the people” or “the one with peace on one side.”

slavic

Walenty

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Walerek

This name derives from the Latin “vălēre > vălĕrĭus” which in turn derives from the Italic (Sabine) “volesus / volusus,” meaning “to be strong, be healthy, strong, vigorous and brave.” The holy women martyrs Kyriake, Kaleria (Valeria), and Mary lived in Palestinian Caesarea during the persecution under Diocletian in the 3rd-century. Having received instruction in the Christian Faith, they abandoned paganism, settled in a solitary place, and spent their lives in prayer, imploring the Lord that the persecution against Christians would end after the Faith of Christ would shine throughout the entire world. Valerian, also known as Valerian, the Elder, was Roman Emperor from 253 to 259. He was taken captive by Persian king Shapur I after the Battle of Edessa, becoming the only Roman Emperor who was captured as a prisoner of war, causing instability in the Empire.

Waleric

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Waleryk

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Walesca

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

Walfred

This name derives from the Old High German “Walafrid, Waldifrid,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) or “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship).

germanic

Walfrid

This name derives from the Old High German “Walafrid, Waldifrid,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) or “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship).

germanic

Walkosz

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Wallace

A male given name, transferred use of the surname since the 19th-century. An Old English byname for a Welshman or Breton, from Old French waleis “foreign.”

old french

Walrich

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Walther

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Waltram

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

germanic

Walwein

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic and Welsh articulated root: “*windos / *gwindos > gwalch gwyn > gawain.” It is the Late Medieval form of the name “Gawain,” which in turn is believed to have originated from the Welsh name “Walchgwn,” meaning “white hawk.” Kenneth Jackson suggested the name evolved from an early Common Brittonic name “*Ualcos Magesos,” meaning “Hawk of the plain.” Sir Gawain and the green knight is an epic poem connected with King Arthur’s roundtable. The form Gavin survived in Scotland and spread to other English-speaking countries in the 1960s. Gawain is King Arthur’s nephew and a knight of the round table in the Arthurian legend. Under the name Gwalchmei, he appears very early in the legend’s development, being mentioned in some of the earliest Welsh Arthurian sources.

proto-brythonic

Waotaka

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japanese

Warmunt

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Wassile

This name derives from the Mycenaean Greek and Ancient Greek “(qa-si-re-u > gwasileus) > basileús ‎(βᾰσῐλεύς) basíleios (βασίλειος),” meaning “chief, master, king, lord, patron, kingly, royal.” Basiléus is a Greek term and title that has signified various types of monarchs in history. It is perhaps best known in English as a title used by the Byzantine emperors, but it also has a more extended history of use for people in authority and sovereigns in ancient Greece, as well as for the kings of modern Greece. Basil II was a Byzantine Emperor from the Macedonian dynasty who reigned from 10 January 976 to 15 December 1025. He was known in his time as Basil the Porphyrogenitus and Basil the Young to distinguish him from his supposed ancestor, Basil I the Macedonian. Saint Basil the Great was the Greek bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the early Christian church’s heresies, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea.

greek

Wawanus

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic and Welsh articulated root: “*windos / *gwindos > gwalch gwyn > gawain.” It is the Late Medieval form of the name “Gawain,” which in turn is believed to have originated from the Welsh name “Walchgwn,” meaning “white hawk.” Kenneth Jackson suggested the name evolved from an early Common Brittonic name “*Ualcos Magesos,” meaning “Hawk of the plain.” Sir Gawain and the green knight is an epic poem connected with King Arthur’s roundtable. The form Gavin survived in Scotland and spread to other English-speaking countries in the 1960s. Gawain is King Arthur’s nephew and a knight of the round table in the Arthurian legend. Under the name Gwalchmei, he appears very early in the legend’s development, being mentioned in some of the earliest Welsh Arthurian sources.

proto-brythonic

Wayland

This name derives from the Germanic and Old Norse “*Wēla-nandaz > *Wēlandaz,” meaning “brave in battle, a courageous fighter.” The name is related to the Germanic “Wiolant” translated as “Wayland. In Germanic and Norse mythology, Wayland the Smith is a legendary master blacksmith. In Old Norse sources, Völundr appears in Völundarkviða, a poem in the Poetic Edda, and Þiðrekssaga, and his legend is also depicted on the Ardre image stone VIII. In Old English sources, he appears in Deor, Waldere, and Beowulf, and the legend is depicted on the Franks Casket. He is mentioned in the German poems about Dietrich von Bern as the Father of Witige.

germanic

Weheyde

This name derives from the Arabic “Wāḥid,” meaning “unique, singular, alone, peerless.” al-Wāḥid is one of the 99 names of God in the Qur’an, which give rise to the Muslim theophoric names.

arabic

Wendell

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) from the Proto-Germanic “*wandrōną > wendel,” meaning “to wander, roam, hike, migrate.” 2) from the Proto-Germanic “*winidaz,” meaning “Wend, Slav.” A term used for a member of a Slavic people from the borders of Germany and Poland; a Sorb; a Kashub. A term used for Slavic peoples living anywhere in the vicinity of German-speaking areas. 3) From the Ancient Germanic “wand,” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk.” The Vandals, a large East Germanic tribe or group of tribes, first appear in history inhabiting present-day southern Poland. Still, some later moved in large numbers, including most notably the group which successively established kingdoms in Spain and then North Africa in the 5th-century.

germanic

Wermund

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Werneri

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Wernher

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Werther

This name derives from the Old High German “Werdheri,” composed of two elements: “*warduz” (guard, defend, protect) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The Sorrows of Young Werther (German: Die Leiden des jungen Werthers) is an epistolary and loosely autobiographical novel by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, first published in 1774; a revised edition of the novel was published in 1787. Werther was a remarkable novel of the Sturm und Drang period in German literature and influenced the later Romantic literary movement. Werther is a town in the district of Gütersloh in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The name-day is celebrated on November 1, the Feast of All Saints.

germanic

Wetiusz

This name derives from the Latin “vectĭo > vectius,” meaning “transportation, transfer, towing.” Lucius Vetius († 59 BC) was a Roman politician of Picene origin, belonging to the gens Vettia. He was an exponent of the class of “equites (Roman cavalry)” in the Roman Republic’s last period. The gens Vettia (or Vezia, Vetia, Vezzia) was a plebeian family from Rome that arose at the end of the Republic. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 2 in honor of San Vettius’ Epagato’ martyr of Lyon.

latin

Whitner

This name means “white water, by the white island.” Whitney is an Old English surname derived from the location of “Whitney” in Herefordshire, England. It was first mentioned in the Domesday Book with the spelling “Witenie.” The name was based on the expression “atten whiten ey,” which means “at the white island.” The name “Whitney” has gained popularity by 1) Whitney Blake (1926–2002), an American film and television actress. 2) Whitney Houston (1963–2012), an American singer, actress, producer, and model. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 1986, the name Whitney ranked 32th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby girls.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wibrand

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wibrant

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wicktor

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > victōria > victŏr,” meaning “conqueror, victory, (one who) conquers.” Victor is a masculine given name that has been used for centuries in numerous cultures and parts of the world. Victoria is a feminine first name. It is also used as a family name and is used as the female form corresponding to Victor. In Ancient Roman Religion, Victoria was the personified goddess of victory. She is the Roman equivalent of the Greek Goddess “Nike,” associated with “Bellona.” She was adapted from the Sabine agricultural Goddess Vacuna and had a temple on the Palatine hill. The Goddess “Vica Pota” was also sometimes identified with Victoria. In Ancient Roman religion, Vica Pota (Vincendi) was a Goddess whose shrine (Aedes) was located at the foot of the Velian Hill, on the site of the Domus of Publius Valerius Publicola. Pope Victor I (died 199) was a bishop of Rome, and hence a pope, in the late 2nd-century.

latin

Wicsław

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: A name of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vit(o)-” (lord, master) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “The Lord who has glory and honor.”

slavic

Wiegand

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

germanic

Wieland

This name derives from the Germanic and Old Norse “*Wēla-nandaz > *Wēlandaz,” meaning “brave in battle, a courageous fighter.” The name is related to the Germanic “Wiolant” translated as “Wayland. In Germanic and Norse mythology, Wayland the Smith is a legendary master blacksmith. In Old Norse sources, Völundr appears in Völundarkviða, a poem in the Poetic Edda, and Þiðrekssaga, and his legend is also depicted on the Ardre image stone VIII. In Old English sources, he appears in Deor, Waldere, and Beowulf, and the legend is depicted on the Franks Casket. He is mentioned in the German poems about Dietrich von Bern as the Father of Witige.

germanic

Wiesław

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vse (все)” (all, everybody) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “all celebrating, all glory.” Vseslav of Polotsk or Vseslav Bryachislavich (~1039–1101), was the most famous ruler of Polotsk and was briefly Grand Prince of Kiev in 1068–1069.

slavic

Wigbert

This name derives from the Old High German “Wigbert,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). In turn, the name means “shining fighter, bright warrior.” Saint Wigbert, born in Wessex around 675, was an Anglo-Saxon Benedictine monk and a missionary and disciple of Saint Boniface who traveled with the latter in Frisia and northern and central Germany to convert the local tribes to Christianity. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on August 13.

germanic

Wigerth

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Wighard

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Wighart

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Wigmund

This name derives from the Old High German “Wigmund,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle) plus “mund” (protection, defense). In turn, the name means “shining fighter, bright warrior.” Wigmund may have briefly reigned in Mercia (one of the kingdoms of the Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy) in about 840, in succession to his father, Wiglaf of Mercia.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wigstan

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Wigstan,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle) plus “stān” (stone). In turn, the name means “the fighter as strong as the stone, the stone of the battle.” Wigstan († ~840), also known as Saint Wystan, was the son of Wigmund of Mercia and Ælfflæd, daughter of King Ceolwulf I of Mercia.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wijntje

This name derives from the Old High German “Baldewin,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave, bold, able-bodied) plus “*-winiz” (friend). In turn, the name means “bold friend, powerful friendship.” Baldwin II of Courtenay was the last emperor of the Latin Empire of Constantinople. He was born in Constantinople, a younger son of Yolanda of Flanders, sister of the first two emperors, Baldwin I and Henry of Flanders.

germanic

Wikerus

This name derives from the Old High German “Chlodowich and Chlodovech,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz,” meaning (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “wīg,” meaning (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight). The name means “glorious in the battle, famous warrior.” Directly from the root of the name derives, for example, “Ludwig” and from “Chlodovech,” for example, derive the masculine form “Clovis and Clodoveo.” Clovis I, “Latinized form Chlodovech,” was king of the Franks and ruler of much of Gaul from 481 to 511, a crucial period during the transformation of the Roman Empire into Europe. His dynasty, the Merovingians, survived more than 200 years, until the rise of the Carolingians in the 8th-century. While he was not the first Frankish king, he was the kingdom’s political and religious founder.

germanic

Wilbald

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Wilbert

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Wilfred

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilfrid

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilfryd

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilgodt

This name derives from the Swedish “Willgott,” composed of two Old Norse elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*gudą / *gadaną / *gōdaz” (god, deity, divine being / to unite, be associated, suit, right). The Germanic name element has two different meanings: (1) ‘god’ and (2) ‘good,’ which are impossible to distinguish.

germanic

Wilgoth

This name derives from the Swedish “Willgott,” composed of two Old Norse elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*gudą / *gadaną / *gōdaz” (god, deity, divine being / to unite, be associated, suit, right). The Germanic name element has two different meanings: (1) ‘god’ and (2) ‘good,’ which are impossible to distinguish.

germanic

Wilgott

This name derives from the Swedish “Willgott,” composed of two Old Norse elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*gudą / *gadaną / *gōdaz” (god, deity, divine being / to unite, be associated, suit, right). The Germanic name element has two different meanings: (1) ‘god’ and (2) ‘good,’ which are impossible to distinguish.

germanic

Wilhard

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin and was formerly a surname derived from “Wilheard.” In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihart,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, powerful one). Willard Preble Hall (1820–1882) was an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 17th Governor of Missouri from 1864 to 1865 during the last years of the American Civil War.

germanic

Wilhelm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilielm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wiljami

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willads

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) name “Willehad,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*chathu” (battle). Saint Willehad of Bremen (Willehadus, Willihad) was a Christian missionary and the Bishop of Bremen from 787. Willehad was born in Northumbria and probably received his education at York under Saint Egbert.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Willard

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin and was formerly a surname derived from “Wilheard.” In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihart,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, powerful one). Willard Preble Hall (1820–1882) was an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 17th Governor of Missouri from 1864 to 1865 during the last years of the American Civil War.

germanic

Willert

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin and was formerly a surname derived from “Wilheard.” In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihart,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, powerful one). Willard Preble Hall (1820–1882) was an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 17th Governor of Missouri from 1864 to 1865 during the last years of the American Civil War.

germanic

Willgot

This name derives from the Swedish “Willgott,” composed of two Old Norse elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*gudą / *gadaną / *gōdaz” (god, deity, divine being / to unite, be associated, suit, right). The Germanic name element has two different meanings: (1) ‘god’ and (2) ‘good,’ which are impossible to distinguish.

germanic

Willmar

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Willmer

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Willson

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilmear

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Winbald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Windsor

riverbank with a windlass (a windlass is a lifting apparatus)

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winfred

This name means a friend of peace, the one who brings peace. The name derives from Old English (Anglo-Saxon) root” wine frið,” which in turn derives from Old High German name “Winfried,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). Saint Winifred or Saint Winefride was a 7th-century Welsh Christian woman, around whom many historical legends have formed. A healing spring at the traditional site of her death is now a shrine and pilgrimage site called St Winefride’s Well in Holywell, Flintshire, Wales known as the Lourdes of Wales.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winfrid

This name means a friend of peace, the one who brings peace. The name derives from Old English (Anglo-Saxon) root” wine frið,” which in turn derives from Old High German name “Winfried,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). Saint Winifred or Saint Winefride was a 7th-century Welsh Christian woman, around whom many historical legends have formed. A healing spring at the traditional site of her death is now a shrine and pilgrimage site called St Winefride’s Well in Holywell, Flintshire, Wales known as the Lourdes of Wales.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winimar

This name derives from the Old High German “Winimar,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*maru-” (famous, notable, noted). In turn, the name means “famous friend.”

germanic

Winston

This name derives from the Anglo-Saxon male personal name “Wynstan,” first recorded since 1303 as a surname “Wynston and Winstone,” composed of two Old English elements: “wynn” (joy) plus “stan” (stone). In turn, the name means “joy stone,” variously taken to mean “friend’s settlement” or “friend’s stone boundary.” As a surname, it was borne by Sarah Winston (1660–1744), who married into the Churchill family and was later known as Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough. Her son has christened Winston (1620–1688) in tribute to her; a later descendant was the well-known Sir Winston Spencer Churchill (1874–1965), the UK Prime Minister who served as a wartime leader.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wiolant

This name derives from the Germanic and Old Norse “*Wēla-nandaz > *Wēlandaz,” meaning “brave in battle, a courageous fighter.” The name is related to the Germanic “Wiolant” translated as “Wayland. In Germanic and Norse mythology, Wayland the Smith is a legendary master blacksmith. In Old Norse sources, Völundr appears in Völundarkviða, a poem in the Poetic Edda, and Þiðrekssaga, and his legend is also depicted on the Ardre image stone VIII. In Old English sources, he appears in Deor, Waldere, and Beowulf, and the legend is depicted on the Franks Casket. He is mentioned in the German poems about Dietrich von Bern as the Father of Witige.

germanic

Wisamar

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wīsaz” (wise, knowledgeable, shrewd, cunning, smart) plus “*maru-” (famous). In turn, the name means “the one who is famous for his knowledge and wisdom.”

germanic

Wiscard

This name derives from the “Whiskard,” composed of two elements: Old Norse and Germanic “víss / vis” (wise, intelligent, cunning, smart one) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful one). Robert Guiscard, called Guiscard (the smart), was a Norman adventurer conspicuous in the conquest of southern Italy and Sicily. Robert was born into the Hauteville family in Normandy and became Duke of Apulia and Calabria (1057–1085, titled count until 1057). Hauteville-la-Guichard is a commune in the Manche department in Normandy in north-western France (population: 425 in 2006). It is famous as the original stronghold of the Hauteville family who made their fortunes in southern Italy and Sicily as the Norman kings of Sicily, beginning with the modest Norman seigneur Tancred of Hauteville, who is commemorated by a simple exhibit housed in the former “Presbytère.”

germanic

Wisimar

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wīsaz” (wise, knowledgeable, shrewd, cunning, smart) plus “*maru-” (famous). In turn, the name means “the one who is famous for his knowledge and wisdom.”

germanic

Wissian

This name derives from the Old High German “wîso / wîs,” meaning “wise, shrewd, cunning, smart one.”

germanic

Witalis

This name derives from the Latin surname “vītālis,” based on the adjective “vīvus,” literally meaning “vital, alive.” The nickname “Vitalis” in the Roman age served to distinguish between two members of the same family, one of whom was still alive and one already dead. 1) Pope Vitalian (Latin: Vitalianus; died 27 January 672) reigned from 30 July 657 to his death in 672. He was born in Segni, Lazio, son of Anastasius. 2) Vitaliano di Iacopo Vitaliani was a Paduan nobleman who lived in the late 13th-century around Giotto and Dante’s time. He is best known for being a wicked usurer, according to Dante, in the Divine Comedy. Vitina (Ljubuški) is a village in Bosnia and Herzegovina. According to the 1991 census, the town is located in the municipality of Ljubuški.

latin

Witomir

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: A name of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vit(o)-” (lord, master) plus “*mir" (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “the lord of peace.”

slavic

Witsław

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: A name of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vit(o)-” (lord, master) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “The Lord who has glory and honor.”

slavic

Witymir

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: A name of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vit(o)-” (lord, master) plus “*mir" (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “the lord of peace.”

slavic

Wizelin

This name derives from the Hungarian (Magyar) and Romanian “Vecel > vețel,” a commune in Hunedoara County, Romania. Saint Vicelinus (1090–1154) was a German bishop of Oldenburg in Holstein who was considered Holstein’s apostle. In the Middle Ages, Veţel was a Hungarian settlement. Romanians also settled here in the 15th-century, and a Romanian quarter was built. Since the 16th-century, the place is inhabited almost exclusively by Romanians.

hungarian (magyar)

Wojsław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vojislav (Војислав),” composed of two elements: “voj (вој)” (war, warrior) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “one who wins fame in the wars, famous warrior.” Stefan Vojislav (~1018–1043) was the Prince of Duklja from 1040 to 1043. He had since 1018 been a Toparch in Byzantine vassalage, and, in 1034, he led an unsuccessful revolt that landed him in prison at Constantinople.

slavic

Wolemir

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “*voliti > woleć” (to prefer) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “one who prefers peace.”

slavic

Wolfard

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhard,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful one). In turn, the name means “the one who is strong like a wolf.” 1) Wolfhard von Roth (born 1302) was bishop of Augsburg from 1288 to 1302 and was the brother of Abbot Dietrich (monastery Sankt Ulrich and Afra Augsburg). 2) Wolfhard von Ehrenfels († after 1421) was Bishop of Lavant.

germanic

Wolfart

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhard,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful one). In turn, the name means “the one who is strong like a wolf.” 1) Wolfhard von Roth (born 1302) was bishop of Augsburg from 1288 to 1302 and was the brother of Abbot Dietrich (monastery Sankt Ulrich and Afra Augsburg). 2) Wolfhard von Ehrenfels († after 1421) was Bishop of Lavant.

germanic

Wolfele

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolferl

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolfger

This name derives from the Germanic “Wolfger,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*gardaz” (court, yard, enclosure, garden, protection, refuge). In turn, the name means “the wolf refuge, the wolf garden, the refugee wolf.” Wolfger von Erla (~1140–1218) was the Bishop of Passau from 1191 until 1204 when he became the Aquileia Patriarch. Wolfger’s diocesan court occupies a place of central importance in the history of German literature.

germanic

Wolfram

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wolfric

This name derives from two Ancient Germanic elements “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “powerful wolf or the power of the wolf.” The name later has been linked to Ulric, which, however, it has a different origin. 1) Wulfric († ~1004), called Wulfric Spot or Spott, was an Anglo-Saxon nobleman. His will is an important document from the reign of King Æthelred the Unready. Wulfric was a patron of the Burton Abbey, around which the modern town of Burton on Trent later grew up, and may have refounded the Benedictine monastery there. 2) Saint Wulfric († 1154) was an anchorite and miracle worker in Wiltshire and Somerset, England, frequently visited by King Stephen. His feast day is February 20.

germanic

Wolimir

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “*voliti > woleć” (to prefer) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “one who prefers peace.”

slavic

Wollmar

This name is a variant form of Volkmar and the Low German form of Waldemar. It is of Germanic and Slavic origin and comes from the following roots: (VOLKMAR) and (VOLODIMĚRŬ).

germanic

Wolther

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Woodrow

Woodrow has initially been an English topographical surname. This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) pre-7th-Century “wudu” (wood, forest, grove, tree, timber), and “raw” (row, line), or a locational name from any of the various places named with the above elements. Other sources suggest the family name is descriptively originating as Woodroe or the border hedge as the clan consisted primarily of border guards at the English, Welsh, and Scottish borders. The name was made popular in part by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, whose mother’s maiden name was Woodrow.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wrosław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vratislav,” composed of two elements: “vorotiti ‎(воротити) vorotítʹ ‎(вороти́ть)” (to bring back, to give back, to turn away) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glory to those who came back.” 1) Wratislaus I (888–921), a member of the Přemyslid dynasty, was Duke of Bohemia from 915 until his death. 2) Wratislaus II († 1092), the son of Bretislaus I and Judith of Schweinfurt, was the first King of Bohemia as of 15 June 1085. The royal title was merely a lifetime grant from Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV, however, and was not hereditary.

slavic

Wulfram

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wulfric

This name derives from two Ancient Germanic elements “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “powerful wolf or the power of the wolf.” The name later has been linked to Ulric, which, however, it has a different origin. 1) Wulfric († ~1004), called Wulfric Spot or Spott, was an Anglo-Saxon nobleman. His will is an important document from the reign of King Æthelred the Unready. Wulfric was a patron of the Burton Abbey, around which the modern town of Burton on Trent later grew up, and may have refounded the Benedictine monastery there. 2) Saint Wulfric († 1154) was an anchorite and miracle worker in Wiltshire and Somerset, England, frequently visited by King Stephen. His feast day is February 20.

germanic

Wybrand

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wybrant

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wynbald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Wyndham

This name derives from the name of the town of Wymondham, meaning “home belonging to Wigmund,” from the given name Wigmund combined with the Old English “ham,” meaning “home, settlement.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wynstan

This name derives from the Anglo-Saxon male personal name “Wynstan,” first recorded since 1303 as a surname “Wynston and Winstone,” composed of two Old English elements: “wynn” (joy) plus “stan” (stone). In turn, the name means “joy stone,” variously taken to mean “friend’s settlement” or “friend’s stone boundary.” As a surname, it was borne by Sarah Winston (1660–1744), who married into the Churchill family and was later known as Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough. Her son has christened Winston (1620–1688) in tribute to her; a later descendant was the well-known Sir Winston Spencer Churchill (1874–1965), the UK Prime Minister who served as a wartime leader.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Władzik

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Władzio

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Włodzik

This name is a diminutive of Włodzimierz, Władysław and Włodzsiław. It is of Old Church Slavonic and Slavic origin and comes from the following roots: (VOLODIMĚRŬ) and (VLAD- SLÁVA).

slavic

Wōdanaz

This name derives from the Germanic “*Wōđanaz / *Wōđinaz,” meaning “poetry, inspiration.” Woden or Wodan is a principal deity of Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic polytheism. Together with his Norse counterpart Odin, Woden represents a development of the Proto-Germanic god *Wōdanaz. Although little is known about the pre-Christian religion of the Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic peoples, little is known about Norse paganism. Woden is attested in English, German, and Dutch places, as well as in various texts and archaeological evidence from the early Middle Ages.

germanic

Walafrid

This name derives from the Old High German “Walafrid, Waldifrid,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) or “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship).

germanic

Walarich

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Waldemar

This name derives from the Old Church Slavonic “Volodiměrŭ (Володимѣръ),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, be in possession of, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “to rule with greatness, of great power, ruler of the world/peace/people.” This name is now widespread throughout all Slavic nations. It is also a common name in former Soviet non-Slavic countries where Christianity is practiced, such as Armenia. Volodymyr Sviatoslavich the Great (Old East Slavic: Володимѣръ Свѧтославичь) was a prince of Rus, grand prince of Kiev, and ruler of Kievan Rus’ from 980 to 1015. Max Vasmer explains the name as meaning “regal.” Folk etymology interprets the meaning as “person of the people” or “the one with peace on one side.”

slavic

Waldmann

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

germanic

Waldomar

This name derives from the Old Church Slavonic “Volodiměrŭ (Володимѣръ),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, be in possession of, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “to rule with greatness, of great power, ruler of the world/peace/people.” This name is now widespread throughout all Slavic nations. It is also a common name in former Soviet non-Slavic countries where Christianity is practiced, such as Armenia. Volodymyr Sviatoslavich the Great (Old East Slavic: Володимѣръ Свѧтославичь) was a prince of Rus, grand prince of Kiev, and ruler of Kievan Rus’ from 980 to 1015. Max Vasmer explains the name as meaning “regal.” Folk etymology interprets the meaning as “person of the people” or “the one with peace on one side.”

slavic

Walentin

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Walentyn

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Walerian

This name derives from the Latin “vălēre > vălĕrĭus” which in turn derives from the Italic (Sabine) “volesus / volusus,” meaning “to be strong, be healthy, strong, vigorous and brave.” The holy women martyrs Kyriake, Kaleria (Valeria), and Mary lived in Palestinian Caesarea during the persecution under Diocletian in the 3rd-century. Having received instruction in the Christian Faith, they abandoned paganism, settled in a solitary place, and spent their lives in prayer, imploring the Lord that the persecution against Christians would end after the Faith of Christ would shine throughout the entire world. Valerian, also known as Valerian, the Elder, was Roman Emperor from 253 to 259. He was taken captive by Persian king Shapur I after the Battle of Edessa, becoming the only Roman Emperor who was captured as a prisoner of war, causing instability in the Empire.

Walfredo

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Walfrido

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Walfried

This name derives from the Old High German “Walafrid, Waldifrid,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) or “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship).

germanic

Walthari

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Waltheri

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wandalin

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) from the Proto-Germanic “*wandrōną > wendel,” meaning “to wander, roam, hike, migrate.” 2) from the Proto-Germanic “*winidaz,” meaning “Wend, Slav.” A term used for a member of a Slavic people from the borders of Germany and Poland; a Sorb; a Kashub. A term used for Slavic peoples living anywhere in the vicinity of German-speaking areas. 3) From the Ancient Germanic “wand,” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk.” The Vandals, a large East Germanic tribe or group of tribes, first appear in history inhabiting present-day southern Poland. Still, some later moved in large numbers, including most notably the group which successively established kingdoms in Spain and then North Africa in the 5th-century.

germanic

Waningus

This name derives from the Latin “vānus > vānitās,” meaning “falsity, falsehood, deception, untruth, untrustworthiness, fickleness, vanity, vainglory.” This name-day is traditionally celebrated on January 9 in memory of Saint Vaningus of Normandy, known as “di Fècamp,” who lived in the 7th-century.

latin

Warimund

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Warimunt

This name derives from the Old High German and Old Norse “Wermund and Vímundr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wīhaz / *wīhijaną” (to hallow, to consecrate, sacred, holy, idol, image) plus “*mundō” (protector, protection, tutelage, guardianship). In turn, the name means “sacred protector, blessed guardian.” Aimo and Vermondo Corio, Counts of Turbigo, were two noble brothers from Lombardy who were to live in the 8th century. They are venerated as saints by the Catholic Church and patrons of Meda. The liturgical feast of Saints Aimo and Vermondo is celebrated on 13 February.

germanic

Washichi

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

japanese

Wawwayne

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic and Welsh articulated root: “*windos / *gwindos > gwalch gwyn > gawain.” It is the Late Medieval form of the name “Gawain,” which in turn is believed to have originated from the Welsh name “Walchgwn,” meaning “white hawk.” Kenneth Jackson suggested the name evolved from an early Common Brittonic name “*Ualcos Magesos,” meaning “Hawk of the plain.” Sir Gawain and the green knight is an epic poem connected with King Arthur’s roundtable. The form Gavin survived in Scotland and spread to other English-speaking countries in the 1960s. Gawain is King Arthur’s nephew and a knight of the round table in the Arthurian legend. Under the name Gwalchmei, he appears very early in the legend’s development, being mentioned in some of the earliest Welsh Arthurian sources.

proto-brythonic

Wedasius

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) From Vedastus, the Latinized form of a Gaulish given name, which derives from a Germanic given name of unknown origin. 2) From the Indo-Germanic “*ghosti-s” (stranger), Old High German “gast” (guest). In French, Saint Vedast and Saint Gaston († ~540) was an early bishop in the Frankish realm. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on February 6.

germanic

Wedastus

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) From Vedastus, the Latinized form of a Gaulish given name, which derives from a Germanic given name of unknown origin. 2) From the Indo-Germanic “*ghosti-s” (stranger), Old High German “gast” (guest). In French, Saint Vedast and Saint Gaston († ~540) was an early bishop in the Frankish realm. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on February 6.

germanic

Wedekind

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic “Widukind,” composed of two elements: “*widu-” (forest, wood, tree) plus “*kinþą” (child). In turn, the name means “the child of the forest.”

germanic

Weikhard

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Weinrich

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

germanic

Welislao

This name derives from the Slavic “Velislav (Велислав),” composed of two elements: Proto-Slavic “velii / velje (*velьjь)” (great, more, many, much, a lot) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “bold honor.” Velislav is a village in Sungurlare Municipality, in Burgas Province, in southeastern Bulgaria.

slavic

Welisław

This name derives from the Slavic “Velislav (Велислав),” composed of two elements: Proto-Slavic “velii / velje (*velьjь)” (great, more, many, much, a lot) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “bold honor.” Velislav is a village in Sungurlare Municipality, in Burgas Province, in southeastern Bulgaria.

slavic

Wendelin

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) from the Proto-Germanic “*wandrōną > wendel,” meaning “to wander, roam, hike, migrate.” 2) from the Proto-Germanic “*winidaz,” meaning “Wend, Slav.” A term used for a member of a Slavic people from the borders of Germany and Poland; a Sorb; a Kashub. A term used for Slavic peoples living anywhere in the vicinity of German-speaking areas. 3) From the Ancient Germanic “wand,” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk.” The Vandals, a large East Germanic tribe or group of tribes, first appear in history inhabiting present-day southern Poland. Still, some later moved in large numbers, including most notably the group which successively established kingdoms in Spain and then North Africa in the 5th-century.

germanic

Werdheri

This name derives from the Old High German “Werdheri,” composed of two elements: “*warduz” (guard, defend, protect) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The Sorrows of Young Werther (German: Die Leiden des jungen Werthers) is an epistolary and loosely autobiographical novel by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, first published in 1774; a revised edition of the novel was published in 1787. Werther was a remarkable novel of the Sturm und Drang period in German literature and influenced the later Romantic literary movement. Werther is a town in the district of Gütersloh in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The name-day is celebrated on November 1, the Feast of All Saints.

germanic

Wernfrid

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “the one who defends peace and friendship.”

germanic

Whilliam

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Whiskard

This name derives from the “Whiskard,” composed of two elements: Old Norse and Germanic “víss / vis” (wise, intelligent, cunning, smart one) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful one). Robert Guiscard, called Guiscard (the smart), was a Norman adventurer conspicuous in the conquest of southern Italy and Sicily. Robert was born into the Hauteville family in Normandy and became Duke of Apulia and Calabria (1057–1085, titled count until 1057). Hauteville-la-Guichard is a commune in the Manche department in Normandy in north-western France (population: 425 in 2006). It is famous as the original stronghold of the Hauteville family who made their fortunes in southern Italy and Sicily as the Norman kings of Sicily, beginning with the modest Norman seigneur Tancred of Hauteville, who is commemorated by a simple exhibit housed in the former “Presbytère.”

germanic

Whitaker

This name is of Proto-Germanic and Old English origin, composed of two elements: from the Old Saxon and Old Frisian “hwīt,” From the Proto-Germanic “*hwītaz” (white) plus the Middle English “acre,” from Old English “æcer” (a field, land, that which is sown, sown land, cultivated land). The name means “white field.” Locational surnames were usually acquired by a local landowner, or by the lord of the manor, and especially by those former inhabitants of a place who had moved to another area, usually in search of work, and were thereafter best identified by the name of the birthplace.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wibrandt

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Widukind

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic “Widukind,” composed of two elements: “*widu-” (forest, wood, tree) plus “*kinþą” (child). In turn, the name means “the child of the forest.”

germanic

Wiebrand

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wiebrant

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wielebor

This name derives from the Slavic name “Velibor,” composed of two elements: From the Proto-Slavic “velii / velje (*velьjь)” (great, many, much, a lot) plus “bítka (битка)” (battle, fight, engagement, fray). In turn, the name means “great fighter”.

slavic

Wielimir

This name derives from the Slavic Serbo-Croatian “Velimir (Велимир)”, composed of two elements: Proto-Slavic “velii / velje (*velьjь)” (great, more, many, much, a lot) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “bold peace, great peace, the one who is great in maintaining peace.” 1) Velimir Khlebnikov 1885–1922), was a poet and playwright, a central part of the Russian Futurist movement, but his work and influence stretch far beyond it. 2) Velimir “Velja” Ilić (born 1951) is a Serbian politician and Minister without portfolio in the Government of Serbia.

slavic

Wielsław

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vse (все)” (all, everybody) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “all celebrating, all glory.” Vseslav of Polotsk or Vseslav Bryachislavich (~1039–1101), was the most famous ruler of Polotsk and was briefly Grand Prince of Kiev in 1068–1069.

slavic

Wigberht

This name derives from the Old High German “Wigbert,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). In turn, the name means “shining fighter, bright warrior.” Saint Wigbert, born in Wessex around 675, was an Anglo-Saxon Benedictine monk and a missionary and disciple of Saint Boniface who traveled with the latter in Frisia and northern and central Germany to convert the local tribes to Christianity. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on August 13.

germanic

Wigheard

This name derives from the Old High German “Wighard / Wighart,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). The name means “the strong fighter, one who fights epic battles.” Wighard / Wigheard († 664/667) was a medieval Archbishop-elect of Canterbury. What little is known about him comes from the 8th-century writer Bede. Still, the various works’ inconsistencies have led to confusion about Wighard’s election’s exact circumstances and whether he was ever confirmed in that office.

germanic

Wijbrand

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wijbrant

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wildfred

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilebald

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Wilebold

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Wilfredo

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilfrido

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilfried

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilfrith

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilibald

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Wilihelm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willamar

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Willaume

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willehad

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) name “Willehad,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*chathu” (battle). Saint Willehad of Bremen (Willehadus, Willihad) was a Christian missionary and the Bishop of Bremen from 787. Willehad was born in Northumbria and probably received his education at York under Saint Egbert.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Willgodt

This name derives from the Swedish “Willgott,” composed of two Old Norse elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*gudą / *gadaną / *gōdaz” (god, deity, divine being / to unite, be associated, suit, right). The Germanic name element has two different meanings: (1) ‘god’ and (2) ‘good,’ which are impossible to distinguish.

germanic

Willgoth

This name derives from the Swedish “Willgott,” composed of two Old Norse elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*gudą / *gadaną / *gōdaz” (god, deity, divine being / to unite, be associated, suit, right). The Germanic name element has two different meanings: (1) ‘god’ and (2) ‘good,’ which are impossible to distinguish.

germanic

Willhelm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willimar

This name derives from the Old High German “Willimar,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*maru-” (famous). The younger forms have been used as male forms of Wilma as well. 1) Villmar is a market village in the Limburg-Weilburg district in Hesse, Germany. The community is the center for quarrying and processing the so-called Lahn Marble. 2) Willmar is a city in and the county seat of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, United States. In Germany, the name is celebrated on July 20.

germanic

Wincenty

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > vincens-entis > Vincentius,” meaning “conqueror, winner, who wins, winning over evil.” Therefore has a similar meaning to the Ancient Greek names Victor, Nicephorus, Nicetas, and Nike. Saint Vincent of Saragossa is the patron saint of Lisbon and Valencia. His feast day is 22 January in the Roman Catholic Church and Anglican Communion and 11 November in the Eastern Orthodox Churches. He was born at Huesca and martyred under Emperor Diocletian around the year 304.

latin

Winebald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Winfried

This name means a friend of peace, the one who brings peace. The name derives from Old English (Anglo-Saxon) root” wine frið,” which in turn derives from Old High German name “Winfried,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). Saint Winifred or Saint Winefride was a 7th-century Welsh Christian woman, around whom many historical legends have formed. A healing spring at the traditional site of her death is now a shrine and pilgrimage site called St Winefride’s Well in Holywell, Flintshire, Wales known as the Lourdes of Wales.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winfrith

This name means a friend of peace, the one who brings peace. The name derives from Old English (Anglo-Saxon) root” wine frið,” which in turn derives from Old High German name “Winfried,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). Saint Winifred or Saint Winefride was a 7th-century Welsh Christian woman, around whom many historical legends have formed. A healing spring at the traditional site of her death is now a shrine and pilgrimage site called St Winefride’s Well in Holywell, Flintshire, Wales known as the Lourdes of Wales.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winibald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Winifrid

This name means a friend of peace, the one who brings peace. The name derives from Old English (Anglo-Saxon) root” wine frið,” which in turn derives from Old High German name “Winfried,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). Saint Winifred or Saint Winefride was a 7th-century Welsh Christian woman, around whom many historical legends have formed. A healing spring at the traditional site of her death is now a shrine and pilgrimage site called St Winefride’s Well in Holywell, Flintshire, Wales known as the Lourdes of Wales.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winsjans

This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > vincens-entis > Vincentius,” meaning “conqueror, winner, who wins, winning over evil.” Therefore has a similar meaning to the Ancient Greek names Victor, Nicephorus, Nicetas, and Nike. Saint Vincent of Saragossa is the patron saint of Lisbon and Valencia. His feast day is 22 January in the Roman Catholic Church and Anglican Communion and 11 November in the Eastern Orthodox Churches. He was born at Huesca and martyred under Emperor Diocletian around the year 304.

latin

Winthrop

WINE's village

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winwaloe

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic, and Breton “*windos / *gwindos / gwyn > Gwenaël,” meaning “blessed and generous, white, fair.” Saint Gwen Teirbron was a Breton holy woman and wife of Saint Fragan who supposedly lived in the 6th century. Her epithet is Welsh for ‘(of the) three breasts.’ Gwyn ap Nudd is a Welsh mythological figure, the king of the Tylwyth Teg or “fair folk” and ruler of the Welsh Otherworld, Annwn. Described as a great warrior with a “blackened face,” Gwyn is intimately associated with the otherworld in medieval Welsh literature and is associated with the international tradition of the Wild Hunt. Saint Winwaloe was the founder and first abbot of Landévennec Abbey (literally “Lann of Venec”), also known as the monastery of Winwaloe. It was just south of Brest in Brittany, now part of France.

proto-brythonic

Wipertus

This name derives from the Old High German “Wigbert,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). In turn, the name means “shining fighter, bright warrior.” Saint Wigbert, born in Wessex around 675, was an Anglo-Saxon Benedictine monk and a missionary and disciple of Saint Boniface who traveled with the latter in Frisia and northern and central Germany to convert the local tribes to Christianity. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on August 13.

germanic

Witalian

This name derives from the Latin surname “vītālis,” based on the adjective “vīvus,” literally meaning “vital, alive.” The nickname “Vitalis” in the Roman age served to distinguish between two members of the same family, one of whom was still alive and one already dead. 1) Pope Vitalian (Latin: Vitalianus; died 27 January 672) reigned from 30 July 657 to his death in 672. He was born in Segni, Lazio, and was the son of Anastasius. 2) Vitaliano di Iacopo Vitaliani was a Paduan nobleman who lived in the late 13th-century around Giotto and Dante’s time. He is best known for being a wicked usurer, according to Dante in the Divine Comedy.

latin

Witoldus

This name derives from the Lithuanian “Vytautas” composed of two elements: “vyti” (chase) plus “tauta” (the people). In turn, the name means “people who speak” or “conducive to the people.” It is also possible that it is a name of Germanic origin, which means “ruling the forest.” This name appears in Polish documents in the fourteenth century, and it was recorded as Witołt, Witowd, and Witold. As a baptismal name, it only began to be widely used in the 19th-century, perhaps influenced by Jozef Ignacy Kraszewski’s historical novel. Vytautas Didysis was one of the most famous rulers of medieval Lithuania. Vytautas was the ruler (1392–1430) of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which chiefly encompassed the Lithuanians and Ruthenians.

germanic

Witosław

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: A name of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vit(o)-” (lord, master) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “The Lord who has glory and honor.”

slavic

Wojciech

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojesław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vojislav (Војислав),” composed of two elements: “voj (вој)” (war, warrior) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “one who wins fame in the wars, famous warrior.” Stefan Vojislav (~1018–1043) was the Prince of Duklja from 1040 to 1043. He had since 1018 been a Toparch in Byzantine vassalage, and, in 1034, he led an unsuccessful revolt that landed him in prison at Constantinople.

slavic

Wojisław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vojislav (Војислав),” composed of two elements: “voj (вој)” (war, warrior) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “one who wins fame in the wars, famous warrior.” Stefan Vojislav (~1018–1043) was the Prince of Duklja from 1040 to 1043. He had since 1018 been a Toparch in Byzantine vassalage, and, in 1034, he led an unsuccessful revolt that landed him in prison at Constantinople.

slavic

Wolfango

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolfgang

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolfhard

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhard,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful one). In turn, the name means “the one who is strong like a wolf.” 1) Wolfhard von Roth (born 1302) was bishop of Augsburg from 1288 to 1302 and was the brother of Abbot Dietrich (monastery Sankt Ulrich and Afra Augsburg). 2) Wolfhard von Ehrenfels († after 1421) was Bishop of Lavant.

germanic

Wolfhart

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhard,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful one). In turn, the name means “the one who is strong like a wolf.” 1) Wolfhard von Roth (born 1302) was bishop of Augsburg from 1288 to 1302 and was the brother of Abbot Dietrich (monastery Sankt Ulrich and Afra Augsburg). 2) Wolfhard von Ehrenfels († after 1421) was Bishop of Lavant.

germanic

Wolfheri

This name derives from the Old Norse and Ancient Germanic “Wolfheri, Úlfarr and UlfgæiRR,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*gaizaz” (spear, pike, javelin) or “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior) or “*warduz” (guard, defend, protect).

germanic

Wolfhram

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wolframo

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wolfrano

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wollfger

This name derives from the Germanic “Wolfger,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*gardaz” (court, yard, enclosure, garden, protection, refuge). In turn, the name means “the wolf refuge, the wolf garden, the refugee wolf.” Wolfger von Erla (~1140–1218) was the Bishop of Passau from 1191 until 1204 when he became the Aquileia Patriarch. Wolfger’s diocesan court occupies a place of central importance in the history of German literature.

germanic

Wondatir

This name is of Ethiopian origin. Wondie is a male personal name. It is an abbreviation of Wondatir, an expression in Tigrinya (an ancient Ethiopic language) which literally is made up of Wond meaning “man,” and Atir meaning “fence.” However, the name-giver actually means to wish that the new child shall be a strong and trustworthy man who can defend others.

Wrocsław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vratislav,” composed of two elements: “vorotiti ‎(воротити) vorotítʹ ‎(вороти́ть)” (to bring back, to give back, to turn away) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glory to those who came back.” 1) Wratislaus I (888–921), a member of the Přemyslid dynasty, was Duke of Bohemia from 915 until his death. 2) Wratislaus II († 1092), the son of Bretislaus I and Judith of Schweinfurt, was the first King of Bohemia as of 15 June 1085. The royal title was merely a lifetime grant from Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV, however, and was not hereditary.

slavic

Wsiesław

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vse (все)” (all, everybody) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “all celebrating, all glory.” Vseslav of Polotsk or Vseslav Bryachislavich (~1039–1101), was the most famous ruler of Polotsk and was briefly Grand Prince of Kiev in 1068–1069.

slavic

Wulfgang

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wulfhard

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhard,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful one). In turn, the name means “the one who is strong like a wolf.” 1) Wolfhard von Roth (born 1302) was bishop of Augsburg from 1288 to 1302 and was the brother of Abbot Dietrich (monastery Sankt Ulrich and Afra Augsburg). 2) Wolfhard von Ehrenfels († after 1421) was Bishop of Lavant.

germanic

Wunebald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Wunibald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Wybrandt

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wynfrith

This name means a friend of peace, the one who brings peace. The name derives from Old English (Anglo-Saxon) root” wine frið,” which in turn derives from Old High German name “Winfried,” composed of two Ancient Germanic elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). Saint Winifred or Saint Winefride was a 7th-century Welsh Christian woman, around whom many historical legends have formed. A healing spring at the traditional site of her death is now a shrine and pilgrimage site called St Winefride’s Well in Holywell, Flintshire, Wales known as the Lourdes of Wales.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wölfchen

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Waizeilie

This name derives from the Mycenaean Greek and Ancient Greek “(qa-si-re-u > gwasileus) > basileús ‎(βᾰσῐλεύς) basíleios (βασίλειος),” meaning “chief, master, king, lord, patron, kingly, royal.” Basiléus is a Greek term and title that has signified various types of monarchs in history. It is perhaps best known in English as a title used by the Byzantine emperors, but it also has a more extended history of use for people in authority and sovereigns in ancient Greece, as well as for the kings of modern Greece. Basil II was a Byzantine Emperor from the Macedonian dynasty who reigned from 10 January 976 to 15 December 1025. He was known in his time as Basil the Porphyrogenitus and Basil the Young to distinguish him from his supposed ancestor, Basil I the Macedonian. Saint Basil the Great was the Greek bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the early Christian church’s heresies, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea.

greek

Wal

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Walafried

This name derives from the Old High German “Walafrid, Waldifrid,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) or “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship).

germanic

Walaricus

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Walchirio

This name derives from the Old Norse “valkyrja,” composed of two elements: the “valr” (the slain, wound, injure) plus “*keusaną > kjósa” (to choose). In turn, the name means “chooser of the slain.” In Norse mythology, a Valkyrie is one of a host of female figures who decide which soldiers die in battle and which live. Selecting among half of those who die in battle (the other half go to the goddess Freyja’s afterlife field Fólkvangr), the Valkyries bring their chosen to the afterlife hall of the slain, Valhalla, ruled over by the god Odin.

old norse

Waldebert

This name derives from the Old High German name “Waldobert,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Saint Gaubert, Count of Hainaut, (Latin: Waldebertus), was a Belgian count of the seventh century and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 2.

germanic

Waldeczek

This name derives from the Old Church Slavonic “Volodiměrŭ (Володимѣръ),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, be in possession of, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “to rule with greatness, of great power, ruler of the world/peace/people.” This name is now widespread throughout all Slavic nations. It is also a common name in former Soviet non-Slavic countries where Christianity is practiced, such as Armenia. Volodymyr Sviatoslavich the Great (Old East Slavic: Володимѣръ Свѧтославичь) was a prince of Rus, grand prince of Kiev, and ruler of Kievan Rus’ from 980 to 1015. Max Vasmer explains the name as meaning “regal.” Folk etymology interprets the meaning as “person of the people” or “the one with peace on one side.”

slavic

Waldemaro

This name derives from the Old Church Slavonic “Volodiměrŭ (Володимѣръ),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, be in possession of, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “to rule with greatness, of great power, ruler of the world/peace/people.” This name is now widespread throughout all Slavic nations. It is also a common name in former Soviet non-Slavic countries where Christianity is practiced, such as Armenia. Volodymyr Sviatoslavich the Great (Old East Slavic: Володимѣръ Свѧтославичь) was a prince of Rus, grand prince of Kiev, and ruler of Kievan Rus’ from 980 to 1015. Max Vasmer explains the name as meaning “regal.” Folk etymology interprets the meaning as “person of the people” or “the one with peace on one side.”

slavic

Waldifrid

This name derives from the Old High German “Walafrid, Waldifrid,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) or “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship).

germanic

Waldobert

This name derives from the Old High German name “Waldobert,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Saint Gaubert, Count of Hainaut, (Latin: Waldebertus), was a Belgian count of the seventh century and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 2.

germanic

Waleriusz

This name derives from the Latin “vălēre > vălĕrĭus” which in turn derives from the Italic (Sabine) “volesus / volusus,” meaning “to be strong, be healthy, strong, vigorous and brave.” The holy women martyrs Kyriake, Kaleria (Valeria), and Mary lived in Palestinian Caesarea during the persecution under Diocletian in the 3rd-century. Having received instruction in the Christian Faith, they abandoned paganism, settled in a solitary place, and spent their lives in prayer, imploring the Lord that the persecution against Christians would end after the Faith of Christ would shine throughout the entire world. Valerian, also known as Valerian, the Elder, was Roman Emperor from 253 to 259. He was taken captive by Persian king Shapur I after the Battle of Edessa, becoming the only Roman Emperor who was captured as a prisoner of war, causing instability in the Empire.

Walfridus

This name derives from the Old High German “Walafrid, Waldifrid,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) or “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship).

germanic

Walherich

This name derives from the Old High German name “Walherich,” composed of two elements: “wala / *walha-” (dead / foreigner, stranger) plus “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich). In turn, the name means “the powerful traveler, the head of foreigners.” Saint Walric († 622) was the founder of the abbey of Leuconay on the Somme River (today Saint-Valery-sur-Somme).

germanic

Wallentin

This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.

latin

Waltarius

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Walterius

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wanderley

(NO RELIABLE INFORMATION IS NOW AVAILABLE, WE WILL UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE).

Wandrille

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “wendī / wende” (turn, turnaround, in the sense of change in temperament or circumstance) plus “*gīslaz” (pledge, hostage). In turn, the name means “the one who is the victim of the changes.” Saint Wandregisel (French: Wandrille) (~605–668 AD) was a Frankish courtier, monk, and abbot. The son of Walchisus, a kinsman of Pepin of Landen, was born around 605, near Verdun in the region, then known as Austrasia. He was educated at the Frankish court in Metz.

germanic

Warcisław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vratislav,” composed of two elements: “vorotiti ‎(воротити) vorotítʹ ‎(вороти́ть)” (to bring back, to give back, to turn away) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glory to those who came back.” 1) Wratislaus I (888–921), a member of the Přemyslid dynasty, was Duke of Bohemia from 915 until his death. 2) Wratislaus II († 1092), the son of Bretislaus I and Judith of Schweinfurt, was the first King of Bohemia as of 15 June 1085. The royal title was merely a lifetime grant from Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV, however, and was not hereditary.

slavic

Warinhari

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Warinheri

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Warnerius

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Wartislaw

This name derives from the Slavic “Vratislav,” composed of two elements: “vorotiti ‎(воротити) vorotítʹ ‎(вороти́ть)” (to bring back, to give back, to turn away) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glory to those who came back.” 1) Wratislaus I (888–921), a member of the Přemyslid dynasty, was Duke of Bohemia from 915 until his death. 2) Wratislaus II († 1092), the son of Bretislaus I and Judith of Schweinfurt, was the first King of Bohemia as of 15 June 1085. The royal title was merely a lifetime grant from Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV, however, and was not hereditary.

slavic

Welizlaus

This name derives from the Slavic “Velislav (Велислав),” composed of two elements: Proto-Slavic “velii / velje (*velьjь)” (great, more, many, much, a lot) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “bold honor.” Velislav is a village in Sungurlare Municipality, in Burgas Province, in southeastern Bulgaria.

slavic

Welyslaus

This name derives from the Slavic “Velislav (Велислав),” composed of two elements: Proto-Slavic “velii / velje (*velьjь)” (great, more, many, much, a lot) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “bold honor.” Velislav is a village in Sungurlare Municipality, in Burgas Province, in southeastern Bulgaria.

slavic

Wenceslas

This name derives from the Slavic “*vetye- sláva > Vecheslavu / Vyacheslav (Вечеславъ),” meaning “having greater glory.” 1) Wenceslaus I was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, purportedly in a plot by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel. His martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness, resulting in his being elevated to Sainthood, posthumously declared King, and seen as the patron saint of the Czech state. 2) Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia (1361–1419) was, by inheritance, King of Bohemia from 1363 and by-election, German King (formally King of the Romans) from 1376.

slavic

Wenceslau

This name derives from the Slavic “*vetye- sláva > Vecheslavu / Vyacheslav (Вечеславъ),” meaning “having greater glory.” 1) Wenceslaus I was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, purportedly in a plot by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel. His martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness, resulting in his being elevated to Sainthood, posthumously declared King, and seen as the patron saint of the Czech state. 2) Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia (1361–1419) was, by inheritance, King of Bohemia from 1363 and by-election, German King (formally King of the Romans) from 1376.

slavic

Weneriusz

This name derives from the Proto Indo-European, Sanskrit, and Latin root “*wen > vanas > vēneris > venus,” meaning “love, sexual desire, loveliness, beauty, charm.” Venus is the Roman goddess whose functions encompassed love, beauty, sexual desire, fertility, prosperity, and victory. In Roman mythology, she was the Roman people’s mother through her son, Aeneas, who survived Troy’s fall and fled to Italy. Venus is the second planet from the Sun. The planet is named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty. After the Earth’s Moon, it is the brightest natural object in the night sky, reaching an apparent magnitude of −4.6, bright enough to cast shadows. Venĕris dies (Venus day) is the Latin version of the fifth day of the week (English: Friday), once sacred to the Germanic goddess Freyja.

latin

Wernerius

This name derives from the Germanic “Warinhari,” composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) and “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “Defending warrior, protecting army.” The name “Werner” and “Verner” are mainly used in Germany and the northern European countries. Werner I, Bishop of Strasbourg († 1028), was bishop of Strasbourg from 1001 until his death in 1028. Werner was one of the last bishops to be appointed by Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Werner II of Habsburg († 1167) was Count of Habsburg and a progenitor of the royal House of Habsburg. He was the great-great-grandfather of King Rudolph I of Germany.

germanic

Wernfried

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*warjaną” (defender, protector/inhabitant, citizen) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “the one who defends peace and friendship.”

germanic

Wespazjan

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “hespéra (ἑσπέρα) hésperos (ἕσπερος),” meaning “evening star, evening, western, (figuratively) western peoples.” Vespasian (Latin: Titus Flavius Caesar Vespasianus Augustus) was Roman Emperor from AD 69 to AD 79. Vespasian founded the Flavian dynasty that ruled the Empire for twenty-seven years. Vespasian was from an equestrian family that rose into the senatorial rank under the Julio-Claudian emperors. In Greek mythology, Hesperus is the Evening Star, the planet Venus in the evening. He is the son of the dawn goddess Eos (Roman Aurora) and is the half-brother of her other son, Phosphorus (also called Eosphorus; the ‘morning star’).

greek

Wiebrandt

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wiekosław

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vyeku / vek (*věkъ)” (age, century) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glorious through the ages, one who has the age for glory.”

slavic

Wielesław

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vse (все)” (all, everybody) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “all celebrating, all glory.” Vseslav of Polotsk or Vseslav Bryachislavich (~1039–1101), was the most famous ruler of Polotsk and was briefly Grand Prince of Kiev in 1068–1069.

slavic

Wielislaw

This name derives from the Slavic “Velislav (Велислав),” composed of two elements: Proto-Slavic “velii / velje (*velьjь)” (great, more, many, much, a lot) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “bold honor.” Velislav is a village in Sungurlare Municipality, in Burgas Province, in southeastern Bulgaria.

slavic

Wielisław

This name is of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vse (все)” (all, everybody) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “all celebrating, all glory.” Vseslav of Polotsk or Vseslav Bryachislavich (~1039–1101), was the most famous ruler of Polotsk and was briefly Grand Prince of Kiev in 1068–1069.

slavic

Wigiliusz

This name derives from the Latin “vĭgĭl,” meaning “awake, alert, ready.” 1) Pope Vigilius († 555) was Pope from 29 March 537 to his death in 555. He is considered the first Pope of the Byzantine Papacy. 2) Saint Vigilius of Trent (Italian: San Vigilio di Trento) is venerated as the patron saint and first bishop of Trent. He should not be confused with the Pope of the same name. According to tradition, he was a Roman patrician and was the son of Maxentia and a man whose name is sometimes given as Theodosius.

latin

Wijbrandt

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic“Wibrand,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*brandaz” (fire, torch, flaming sword). In turn, the name means “the fire battle.”

germanic

Wil

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wildfried

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilebaldo

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Wilfredus

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Wilhardus

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin and was formerly a surname derived from “Wilheard.” In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihart,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, powerful one). Willard Preble Hall (1820–1882) was an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 17th Governor of Missouri from 1864 to 1865 during the last years of the American Civil War.

germanic

Wilhelmek

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilhelmus

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wilibaldo

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Wilielmus

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willabald

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willabert

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Willahelm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willebald

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willebert

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Willebold

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willibald

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willibert

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Willibold

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willifrid

This name derives from Old High German name “Willifrid,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*friþuz” (peace, tranquility, friendship). In turn, the name means “desire for peace, desire for friendship.” Wilfrid was an English bishop and saint. Born a Northumbrian noble, he entered religious life as a teenager and studied at Lindisfarne, at Canterbury, in Gaul, and at Rome; he returned to Northumbria in about 660 and became the abbot of a newly founded monastery at Ripon.

germanic

Willihart

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin and was formerly a surname derived from “Wilheard.” In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihart,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, powerful one). Willard Preble Hall (1820–1882) was an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 17th Governor of Missouri from 1864 to 1865 during the last years of the American Civil War.

germanic

Willihelm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willipald

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willipert

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Willipold

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willohelm

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Winicjusz

This name derives from the Medieval Latin “vīnum > Vinicius,” meaning “wine, of wine, the drinker.” Marcus Vinicius was a Roman consul and a prominent general at the first Roman emperor’s service, Augustus (ruled 30 BC-AD 14). 2) Marcus Vinicius was a Roman consul and, as the husband of Julia Livilla, grandson-in-law (progenitor) of the emperor Tiberius.

latin

Winnebald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Winnibald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Winwallus

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic, and Breton “*windos / *gwindos / gwyn > Gwenaël,” meaning “blessed and generous, white, fair.” Saint Gwen Teirbron was a Breton holy woman and wife of Saint Fragan who supposedly lived in the 6th century. Her epithet is Welsh for ‘(of the) three breasts.’ Gwyn ap Nudd is a Welsh mythological figure, the king of the Tylwyth Teg or “fair folk” and ruler of the Welsh Otherworld, Annwn. Described as a great warrior with a “blackened face,” Gwyn is intimately associated with the otherworld in medieval Welsh literature and is associated with the international tradition of the Wild Hunt. Saint Winwaloe was the founder and first abbot of Landévennec Abbey (literally “Lann of Venec”), also known as the monastery of Winwaloe. It was just south of Brest in Brittany, now part of France.

proto-brythonic

Winwalœus

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic, and Breton “*windos / *gwindos / gwyn > Gwenaël,” meaning “blessed and generous, white, fair.” Saint Gwen Teirbron was a Breton holy woman and wife of Saint Fragan who supposedly lived in the 6th century. Her epithet is Welsh for ‘(of the) three breasts.’ Gwyn ap Nudd is a Welsh mythological figure, the king of the Tylwyth Teg or “fair folk” and ruler of the Welsh Otherworld, Annwn. Described as a great warrior with a “blackened face,” Gwyn is intimately associated with the otherworld in medieval Welsh literature and is associated with the international tradition of the Wild Hunt. Saint Winwaloe was the founder and first abbot of Landévennec Abbey (literally “Lann of Venec”), also known as the monastery of Winwaloe. It was just south of Brest in Brittany, now part of France.

proto-brythonic

Wippertus

This name derives from the Old High German “Wigbert,” composed of two elements: “wīg” (fight, battle, fighter, able to fight) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). In turn, the name means “shining fighter, bright warrior.” Saint Wigbert, born in Wessex around 675, was an Anglo-Saxon Benedictine monk and a missionary and disciple of Saint Boniface who traveled with the latter in Frisia and northern and central Germany to convert the local tribes to Christianity. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on August 13.

germanic

Wissarion

This name derives from Ancient Greek “Bēssa (βῆσσα) Bēssarìōn (Βησσαρίων),” meaning “cultivated, grown, coming from Basarabia.” Bessarion, a Roman Catholic Cardinal Bishop and the titular Latin Patriarch of Constantinople, was one of the illustrious Greek scholars who contributed to the great revival of letters in the 15th-century. He has been mistakenly known also as Johannes Bessarion due to an erroneous interpretation of Gregory III Mammas. Bessarabia is a historical term for the geographic region in Eastern Europe bounded by the Dniester River on the east and the Prut River on the west.

greek

Wissewald

This name derives from the Slavic “Vsevolod (Всеволод),” composed of two Proto-Slavic elements: “vse (все / *vьse)” (everything, all, many, much, a lot) plus “volod / vlad- (владь)” (to govern, to rule, to dominate, to reign). In turn, the name means “lord of everything, one who rules all.”

slavic

Witalisek

This name derives from the Latin surname “vītālis,” based on the adjective “vīvus,” literally meaning “vital, alive.” The nickname “Vitalis” in the Roman age served to distinguish between two members of the same family, one of whom was still alive and one already dead. 1) Pope Vitalian (Latin: Vitalianus; died 27 January 672) reigned from 30 July 657 to his death in 672. He was born in Segni, Lazio, son of Anastasius. 2) Vitaliano di Iacopo Vitaliani was a Paduan nobleman who lived in the late 13th-century around Giotto and Dante’s time. He is best known for being a wicked usurer, according to Dante, in the Divine Comedy. Vitina (Ljubuški) is a village in Bosnia and Herzegovina. According to the 1991 census, the town is located in the municipality of Ljubuški.

latin

Witeliusz

This name derives from the Latin “vitulus > vitellus,” meaning “a small calf, the yolk of an egg.” Vitellius (Aulus Vitellius Germanicus Augustus); 15–69 AD) was Roman Emperor for eight months, from 16 April to 22 December 69 AD.

latin

Witomierz

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: A name of Slavic origin, composed of two elements: “vit(o)-” (lord, master) plus “*mir" (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “the lord of peace.”

slavic

Więcesław

This name derives from the Slavic “*vetye- sláva > Vecheslavu / Vyacheslav (Вечеславъ),” meaning “having greater glory.” 1) Wenceslaus I was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, purportedly in a plot by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel. His martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness, resulting in his being elevated to Sainthood, posthumously declared King, and seen as the patron saint of the Czech state. 2) Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia (1361–1419) was, by inheritance, King of Bohemia from 1363 and by-election, German King (formally King of the Romans) from 1376.

slavic

Wojtaszek

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojtaszka

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wojteczek

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wolfgango

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolfgardo

This name derives from the Old High German “Wulfgard,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*gardaz” (court, yard, enclosure, garden, protection, refuge). In turn, the name means “the one who takes refuge among the wolves, the one who is protected from wolves.”

germanic

Woltertje

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Woutertje

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wratysław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vratislav,” composed of two elements: “vorotiti ‎(воротити) vorotítʹ ‎(вороти́ть)” (to bring back, to give back, to turn away) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glory to those who came back.” 1) Wratislaus I (888–921), a member of the Přemyslid dynasty, was Duke of Bohemia from 915 until his death. 2) Wratislaus II († 1092), the son of Bretislaus I and Judith of Schweinfurt, was the first King of Bohemia as of 15 June 1085. The royal title was merely a lifetime grant from Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV, however, and was not hereditary.

slavic

Wrocisław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vratislav,” composed of two elements: “vorotiti ‎(воротити) vorotítʹ ‎(вороти́ть)” (to bring back, to give back, to turn away) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glory to those who came back.” 1) Wratislaus I (888–921), a member of the Přemyslid dynasty, was Duke of Bohemia from 915 until his death. 2) Wratislaus II († 1092), the son of Bretislaus I and Judith of Schweinfurt, was the first King of Bohemia as of 15 June 1085. The royal title was merely a lifetime grant from Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV, however, and was not hereditary.

slavic

Wye

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wynnebald

This name derives from the Old High German “Winibald,” composed of two elements: “*-winiz” (friend) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “friend of the bold.” Wunibald († 768) was abbot of the Benedictine double monastery of Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm. Traditionally, he is called the brother of Saint Willibald and Saint Walpurga. He founded a Benedictine monastery in England. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on December 18.

germanic

Władysław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Włastimir

This name derives from the Old Slavic “Vlastimir,” composed of two elements: “volsti (волсть)” (power, Government, rule, sovereignty; modern ‘homeland’) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). Vlastimir (~805–851) was the Serbian Prince from 830 until 851. Little is known of his reign. He held Serbia during the growing threat posed by the neighboring, hitherto peaceful Bulgarian Khanate, which had significantly expanded to the southeast, closing in on Serbia. The Vlastimirović Dynasty (Serbian: Властимировићи, Vlastimirovići) was the first Serbian royal dynasty, named after Prince Vlastimir (831–851), who was recognized by the Byzantine Empire.

slavic

Wale

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Ward

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “ead / ēad” (prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth) plus “weard” (guard, defend). In turn, the name derives from two Germanic elements: “*audaz” plus “*warduz” (Proto-Germanic: *audwaroþō). It is one of the few Old English (Anglo-Saxon) names to gain popularity in other parts of Europe and beyond, for example, as Eduardo and Duarte in Spain and Portugal, respectively. Edward the Confessor (~1004–1066), son of Æthelred the Unready and Emma of Normandy, was one of the last Anglo-Saxon kings of England and is usually regarded as the last king of the House of Wessex, ruling from 1042 to 1066. Edward the Martyr (~962–978) was king of the English from 975 until he was murdered in 978. Edward was the eldest son of King Edgar but was not his father’s acknowledged heir.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Ward

Howard is a popular English occupational given name of Middle English origin, meaning “shepherd, sheepherder.” This name derives from the Old Norse Personal Name “Hávarðr,” composed of two elements: “Hár” (high) plus “Varðr” (guard). In turn, the name is linked to the Germanic elements “Hug,” meaning “heart, mind” plus “ward,” meaning “guard.” Howard Stark is an American fictional comic book character who appears in books published by Marvel Comics, usually as a background character in stories featuring his son, Tony Stark (aka Iron Man).

germanic

Washington

Washington is a male given name and a surname. It most frequently refers to George Washington (1732–1799), the first President of the United States of America. Early references appear in Tyne and Wear in 1096 in Old English as Wasindone. The etymological origin is disputed, and there are several proposed theories for how the name “Washington” came about. The most supported theory is that Washington is derived from Anglo-Saxon Hwæsingatūn, which roughly means “estate of the descendants (family) of “Hwæsa.” Hwæsa (usually rendered Wassa or Wossa in modern English) is an Old English name meaning “wheat sheaf.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wawrzyniec

This name derives from the Latin “Laurentum” (wreathed/crowned with laurel), which in turn derives from “laurus,” meaning “laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” Laurentum was an ancient Roman city of Latium situated between Ostia and Lavinium, on the west coast of the Italian Peninsula southwest of Rome. Laurence (Laurentius) was the second Archbishop of Canterbury from about 604 to 619. He was a member of the Gregorian mission sent from Italy to England to Christianize the Anglo-Saxons from their native Anglo-Saxon paganism, although the date of his arrival is disputed. San Lorenzo “St. Lawrence” is also linked to the night of the falling stars.

latin

Wenancjusz

This name derives from the Latin “vēnor > vēnātĭo > vēnātīcĭus > venantius,” meaning “hunter, hunting, game hunting.” 1) Venantius of Camerino (Italian: San Venanzio) is the patron saint of Camerino, Italy. Christian tradition holds that he was a 15-year old who was tortured and martyred by decapitation at Camerino during the persecutions of Decius. Martyred with him were ten other Christians, including the priest Porphyrius, Venantius’ tutor, and Leontius, bishop of Camerino. 2) Venantius was a politician of Italia and consul for the year 507 with Emperor Anastasius I as his colleague.

latin

Wendalinus

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) from the Proto-Germanic “*wandrōną > wendel,” meaning “to wander, roam, hike, migrate.” 2) from the Proto-Germanic “*winidaz,” meaning “Wend, Slav.” A term used for a member of a Slavic people from the borders of Germany and Poland; a Sorb; a Kashub. A term used for Slavic peoples living anywhere in the vicinity of German-speaking areas. 3) From the Ancient Germanic “wand,” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk.” The Vandals, a large East Germanic tribe or group of tribes, first appear in history inhabiting present-day southern Poland. Still, some later moved in large numbers, including most notably the group which successively established kingdoms in Spain and then North Africa in the 5th-century.

germanic

Wendelinus

The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) from the Proto-Germanic “*wandrōną > wendel,” meaning “to wander, roam, hike, migrate.” 2) from the Proto-Germanic “*winidaz,” meaning “Wend, Slav.” A term used for a member of a Slavic people from the borders of Germany and Poland; a Sorb; a Kashub. A term used for Slavic peoples living anywhere in the vicinity of German-speaking areas. 3) From the Ancient Germanic “wand,” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk.” The Vandals, a large East Germanic tribe or group of tribes, first appear in history inhabiting present-day southern Poland. Still, some later moved in large numbers, including most notably the group which successively established kingdoms in Spain and then North Africa in the 5th-century.

germanic

Wenzeslaus

This name derives from the Slavic “*vetye- sláva > Vecheslavu / Vyacheslav (Вечеславъ),” meaning “having greater glory.” 1) Wenceslaus I was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, purportedly in a plot by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel. His martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness, resulting in his being elevated to Sainthood, posthumously declared King, and seen as the patron saint of the Czech state. 2) Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia (1361–1419) was, by inheritance, King of Bohemia from 1363 and by-election, German King (formally King of the Romans) from 1376.

slavic

Willaperht

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Willbēorht

This name derives from Old High German “Willibert,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Wilbert († 889) was the Archbishop of Cologne from 870 until his death. Wilbert was a priest in Cologne Cathedral when Archbishop Gunther was excommunicated and deposed.

germanic

Willebaldo

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willehadus

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) name “Willehad,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*chathu” (battle). Saint Willehad of Bremen (Willehadus, Willihad) was a Christian missionary and the Bishop of Bremen from 787. Willehad was born in Northumbria and probably received his education at York under Saint Egbert.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Willibaldo

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Willibrord

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Willibrord,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô / willa” (will, wish, desire) plus “*bruzdaz / brord” (point, spike, thorn, a kind of shaft). Willibrord (658–739) was an Irish bishop of British origin who lived between the seventh and eighth centuries, who is considered the apostle of Friesland (and more extensively of all the Netherlands, Flanders, and Luxembourg), is revered as a saint by many Christian churches.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Willihadus

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) name “Willehad,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*chathu” (battle). Saint Willehad of Bremen (Willehadus, Willihad) was a Christian missionary and the Bishop of Bremen from 787. Willehad was born in Northumbria and probably received his education at York under Saint Egbert.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Winwaloeus

This name derives from the Proto-Celtic, Proto-Brythonic, and Breton “*windos / *gwindos / gwyn > Gwenaël,” meaning “blessed and generous, white, fair.” Saint Gwen Teirbron was a Breton holy woman and wife of Saint Fragan who supposedly lived in the 6th century. Her epithet is Welsh for ‘(of the) three breasts.’ Gwyn ap Nudd is a Welsh mythological figure, the king of the Tylwyth Teg or “fair folk” and ruler of the Welsh Otherworld, Annwn. Described as a great warrior with a “blackened face,” Gwyn is intimately associated with the otherworld in medieval Welsh literature and is associated with the international tradition of the Wild Hunt. Saint Winwaloe was the founder and first abbot of Landévennec Abbey (literally “Lann of Venec”), also known as the monastery of Winwaloe. It was just south of Brest in Brittany, now part of France.

proto-brythonic

Wirgiliusz

This name derives from the Latin “Vergĭlĭus.” There are two hypotheses about the etymology: 1) From the Latin “Vergĭlĭæ” (the constellation of the Pleiades). 2) From the Latin “Vĭr,” meaning “man, male” plus “līlĭum,” meaning “lily.” In turn, the name means “a person as pure as a lily.” Publius Vergilius Maro, usually called Virgil or Vergil in English, was an ancient Roman poet of the Augustan period. Vergilius of Salzburg an Irish churchman, an early astronomer, and bishop of Salzburg. His obituary calls him the geometer.

latin

Wirginiusz

This name derives from the Latin “Virgo > Vergĭnĭus > Vergĭnĭa” (girl of marriageable age, maiden, maiden, virgin, with no sexual experience, a young bride, Roman priestess devoted to chastity, the Virgin goddess, an epithet of Diana). The gens Vergĭnĭa or Virgĭnĭa was a prominent family at Rome, which from an early period was divided into patrician and plebeian branches. The gens was of great antiquity, and frequently filled the highest honors of the state during the first years of the Republic. In Roman mythology, Verginia was a young woman who was killed by her father for evading the aims of Appius Claudius.

latin

Wojcieszek

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wolfgangus

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Wolfhraban

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wolframmus

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wolframnus

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wolfrannus

This name derives from the Old High German “Wolfhraban and Wolfhram,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*hrabnaz > raban” (raven). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but especially as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Wolfram von Eschenbach (~1170–1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of his time. As a Minnesinger, he also wrote lyric poetry. 2) Wolfram von Richthofen (1895–1945) was a German Generalfeldmarschall (General Field Marshal) of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War.

germanic

Wratislaus

This name derives from the Slavic “Vratislav,” composed of two elements: “vorotiti ‎(воротити) vorotítʹ ‎(вороти́ть)” (to bring back, to give back, to turn away) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “glory to those who came back.” 1) Wratislaus I (888–921), a member of the Přemyslid dynasty, was Duke of Bohemia from 915 until his death. 2) Wratislaus II († 1092), the son of Bretislaus I and Judith of Schweinfurt, was the first King of Bohemia as of 15 June 1085. The royal title was merely a lifetime grant from Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV, however, and was not hereditary.

slavic

Wynn

This name derives From the Proto-Brythonic “*gwindos,” and Proto-Celtic “*windos,” meaning (white, fair). Gwyn ap Nudd is a Welsh mythological figure, the king of the Tylwyth Teg or “fair folk” and ruler of the Welsh Otherworld, Annwn. Described as a great warrior with a “blackened face,” Gwyn is intimately associated with the otherworld in medieval Welsh literature and is associated with the international tradition of the Wild Hunt.

proto-brythonic

Wyot

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Włodzisław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Włodzsiław

This name derives from the Slavic “Vladislav (Владислав),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, own, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “sláva ‎(сла́ва)” (glory, fame, renown, honor, repute, reputation). In turn, the name means “to rule with glory, glorious lord, one who commands fame.” Vladislaus I (1065–1125) was Duke of Bohemia from 1109 to 1117 and from 1120 until his death. Vladislav I was a son of Duke, later King Vratislaus II of Bohemia, by his second wife, Svatava, a daughter of Casimir I of Poland. The name is popular among all Slavic nations as well as some neighboring non-Slavic countries.

slavic

Waldebertus

This name derives from the Old High German name “Waldobert,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). Saint Gaubert, Count of Hainaut, (Latin: Waldebertus), was a Belgian count of the seventh century and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 2.

germanic

Wandergisel

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “wendī / wende” (turn, turnaround, in the sense of change in temperament or circumstance) plus “*gīslaz” (pledge, hostage). In turn, the name means “the one who is the victim of the changes.” Saint Wandregisel (French: Wandrille) (~605–668 AD) was a Frankish courtier, monk, and abbot. The son of Walchisus, a kinsman of Pepin of Landen, was born around 605, near Verdun in the region, then known as Austrasia. He was educated at the Frankish court in Metz.

germanic

Wandregisel

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “wendī / wende” (turn, turnaround, in the sense of change in temperament or circumstance) plus “*gīslaz” (pledge, hostage). In turn, the name means “the one who is the victim of the changes.” Saint Wandregisel (French: Wandrille) (~605–668 AD) was a Frankish courtier, monk, and abbot. The son of Walchisus, a kinsman of Pepin of Landen, was born around 605, near Verdun in the region, then known as Austrasia. He was educated at the Frankish court in Metz.

germanic

Wandregisil

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “wendī / wende” (turn, turnaround, in the sense of change in temperament or circumstance) plus “*gīslaz” (pledge, hostage). In turn, the name means “the one who is the victim of the changes.” Saint Wandregisel (French: Wandrille) (~605–668 AD) was a Frankish courtier, monk, and abbot. The son of Walchisus, a kinsman of Pepin of Landen, was born around 605, near Verdun in the region, then known as Austrasia. He was educated at the Frankish court in Metz.

germanic

Wendelberth

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic element “wand (vönd),” meaning “stem, trunk, stalk” plus “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one). The name is related to the ethnic term Wendel “Wend” (a Wend was a member of the Slavonic people, who lived between the rivers Elbe and Oder). Also, from this root comes the name “Wanda” but it is not related to Polish “wandal” (vandal).

germanic

Wilee

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Willibaldus

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*balðraz” (power, strength, brave one, bold, able-bodied). In turn, the name means “the one who wants to be strong and courageous.” Saint Willibald (~700–787) was the 8th-century bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria. Information about his life is mostly drawn from the Hodoeporicon of Saint Willibald, a text written in the 8th century by Huneberc, an Anglo-Saxon nun from Heidenheim am Hahnenkamm who knew Willibald and his brother personally. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 7.

germanic

Woody

This name derives from the Old English “wudu/widu,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Germanic “*widuz,” meaning “overgrown with trees and shrubs, having a stem of wood.”

germanic

Wotke

It is a given name of Slavic origin composed of two elements: “voj, (Voyna (Война) vojna (војна)” (war, warrior) plus “ciech / cieszyć” (rejoice, enjoy), with the resulting combination meaning “one who enjoys as a soldier, joy of war, warrior comfort, enjoying warrior, smiling warrior.” The name Adalbert is sometimes associated with Wojciech / Vojtech, but they have no linguistic relationship with each other. Their components and meanings are entirely different, but the names may have become associated as a result of St. Adalbert of Prague (born Vojtěch Slavník) taking the name of Adalbert at confirmation. The first name Vojtěch is the 9th most used name in the Czech Republic.

slavic

Wyatt

This name derives from the Ancient Germanic root “*widu / Vitu,” which means “forest as a borderline, forest, wood, tree.” Some forms of the name derived from the Latin “vīta,” which means “life.” Guido In the past was the diminutive form of other names, such as Guidobaldo and Guidalberto, which are Germanic, but already in the past, “Wido” was confused with Latin Vitus (today Vito), which in fact in many languages all names are entirely equivalent. Saint Guy of Anderlecht was a Christian saint. He was known as the Poor Man of Anderlecht. 2) Saint Vitus, according to Christian legend, was a Christian saint from Sicily. He died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by co-ruling Roman Emperors Diocletian and Maximian in 303. Vitus is counted as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers of the Roman Catholic Church. 3) Guido is a slang term for a working-class urban Italian American. The “Guido” stereotype is multi-faceted. Initially, it was used as a demeaning term for Italian Americans in general.

germanic

Wylie

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wälti

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Wôdan

This name derives from the Germanic “*Wōđanaz / *Wōđinaz,” meaning “poetry, inspiration.” Woden or Wodan is a principal deity of Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic polytheism. Together with his Norse counterpart Odin, Woden represents a development of the Proto-Germanic god *Wōdanaz. Although little is known about the pre-Christian religion of the Anglo-Saxon and Continental Germanic peoples, little is known about Norse paganism. Woden is attested in English, German, and Dutch places, as well as in various texts and archaeological evidence from the early Middle Ages.

germanic

Wölfi

This name means “who walks like a wolf, hunter of wolves, one who follows the wolf’s track.” It derives from the Old High German name “Wolfgang,” composed of two elements: “*-wulfaz” (wolf) plus “*ganganą” (to go, walk, turn out, to step). Wulf and Wolf were one of the most prolific elements in early Germanic and Nordic names. In Norse mythology, Gangr or Gang was a giant and a son of Ölvaldi and his brothers Þjazi and Iði. It could figure as the first element in dithematic names, as in Wulfstan, but mostly as the second element, in the form “-ulf, / -olf.” The numerous names in -wulf, -ulf, -olf gave rise to hypocorisms (pet) from an early time, which were later also treated as given names in their own right. The wolf is a significant figure in Germanic and Norse paganism for more than a thousand years. 1) Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg (~934–994) was bishop of Regensburg in Bavaria from Christmas 972 until his death. He is a saint of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. 2) Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt-Köthen (1492–1566), was a German prince of the House of Ascania and ruler of the principality of Anhalt-köthen. He was one of the earliest Protestant rulers in the Holy Roman Empire. 3) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the classical era.

germanic

Włodzimierz

This name derives from the Old Church Slavonic “Volodiměrŭ (Володимѣръ),” composed of two elements: “vladěti ‎(владѣти) vladétʹ ‎(владе́ть)” (to rule, to own, possess, be master of, be in possession of, govern, control, to master, manage) plus “*mir” (*mirъ) mir ‎(мир)” (peace, calm, tranquility, universe, world). In turn, the name means “to rule with greatness, of great power, ruler of the world/peace/people.” This name is now widespread throughout all Slavic nations. It is also a common name in former Soviet non-Slavic countries where Christianity is practiced, such as Armenia. Volodymyr Sviatoslavich the Great (Old East Slavic: Володимѣръ Свѧтославичь) was a prince of Rus, grand prince of Kiev, and ruler of Kievan Rus’ from 980 to 1015. Max Vasmer explains the name as meaning “regal.” Folk etymology interprets the meaning as “person of the people” or “the one with peace on one side.”

slavic

Waldek

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Waldus

This name derives from Ancient Germanic “Waltheri,” composed of two elements: “*waldaʐ” (ruler, might, mighty one, power, powerful one) plus “*harjaz” (army, army leader, commander, warrior). The name means “ruler of the army, leader of an army.” Waltheri, son of Wacho from his third wife, Silinga, was a king of the Lombards from 539 to 546. He was an infant king, and Audoin administered the rule. The Latinized form is Waltharius, the title of a poem on the legendary Gothic king Walter of Aquitaine. Jacob Grimm in Teutonic Mythology speculates that Walthari, literally “wielder of hosts,” may have been an epithet of the god of war, Ziu or Eor and that the circumstance that the hero of the Waltharius poems loses his right hand in battle may be significant, linking him to the Norse tradition of Tyr.

germanic

Warsonofiusz

This name derives from the Aramaic patronymic “bar-” plus the Egyptian Coptic “wnn-nfr” (Unnufer), meaning “son of the judge oufrios.” Varsanofiy (1845–1913) was a Russian religious. He is revered as a saint by the Orthodox Church, which commemorates the day of his death. Barsanuphius of Palestine, also known as Barsanuphius of Gaza († ~540 AD), was a hermit of the 6th-century. Born in Egypt, he lived in absolute seclusion for fifty years, and then near the monastery of Saint Seridon of Gaza in Palestine.

aramaic

Willibrordus

This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Willibrord,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô / willa” (will, wish, desire) plus “*bruzdaz / brord” (point, spike, thorn, a kind of shaft). Willibrord (658–739) was an Irish bishop of British origin who lived between the seventh and eighth centuries, who is considered the apostle of Friesland (and more extensively of all the Netherlands, Flanders, and Luxembourg), is revered as a saint by many Christian churches.

old english (anglo-saxon)

Willie

This name derives from the Old Norman “Williame,” (French: Guillaume; German: Wilhelm). In turn, the name derives from the Old High German name “Willihelm,” composed of two elements: “*wiljô” (will, wish, desire) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection); thus the Old German Name “Wilhelm” and the Old Norse name “Vilhjálmr” have the same roots. The first well-known bearer of the name was Charlemagne’s cousin William of Gellone, William of Orange, and Guillaume Fierabrace (755–812). This William is immortalized in the “Chanson de Guillaume,” and his esteem may account for the name’s subsequent popularity among European nobility. 1) William I (1028–1087), usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William, the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until he died in 1087. 2) William I (Wilhelm Friedrich Ludwig, 1797–1888) of the House of Hohenzollern was the King of Prussia (1861–1888) and the first German Emperor (1871–1888), as well as the first Head of State of a united Germany. 3) William Tell is a famous hero of Switzerland. His legend is tracked in a Swiss chronicle of the late 15th-century.

germanic

Wolfdietrich

This name is a combination (composed, blended name) of “Wolf” and “Dietrich.” It is of Germanic origin and comes from the following roots: (*-WULFAZ) and (THEODORICH).

germanic

Woodie

This name derives from the Old English “wudu/widu,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Germanic “*widuz,” meaning “overgrown with trees and shrubs, having a stem of wood.”

germanic

Wílton

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: “wiell(a)” (spring or stream) plus “tūn” (an enclosed piece of ground, an enclosure or garden, a large inhabited place, a town). In turn, the name means “the one who lives in a village near a stream.” It is an English locational name from any of the various places so called in Cumberland, Herefordshire, Norfolk, Somerset, Wiltshire, and Yorkshire. Both Wilton in Somerset and Yorkshire have their first element Old English pre-7th-century “wiell(a).” The place that has given its name to Wiltshire derives its name from the Celtic river “wylye,” an ancient British river name, possibly meaning “tricky stream, capricious.”

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wafiq

Successful

arabic

Wajih

noble

arabic

Wasim

handsome

arabic

Witaliś

This name derives from the Latin surname “vītālis,” based on the adjective “vīvus,” literally meaning “vital, alive.” The nickname “Vitalis” in the Roman age served to distinguish between two members of the same family, one of whom was still alive and one already dead. 1) Pope Vitalian (Latin: Vitalianus; died 27 January 672) reigned from 30 July 657 to his death in 672. He was born in Segni, Lazio, son of Anastasius. 2) Vitaliano di Iacopo Vitaliani was a Paduan nobleman who lived in the late 13th-century around Giotto and Dante’s time. He is best known for being a wicked usurer, according to Dante, in the Divine Comedy. Vitina (Ljubuški) is a village in Bosnia and Herzegovina. According to the 1991 census, the town is located in the municipality of Ljubuški.

latin

Wafeeq

Successful

arabic

Wajeeh

noble

arabic

Waseem

handsome

arabic

Wasiem

handsome

arabic

Wassim

handsome

arabic

Wright

craftsman

old english (anglo-saxon)

Wandregesilius

This name is of Germanic origin, composed of two elements: “wendī / wende” (turn, turnaround, in the sense of change in temperament or circumstance) plus “*gīslaz” (pledge, hostage). In turn, the name means “the one who is the victim of the changes.” Saint Wandregisel (French: Wandrille) (~605–668 AD) was a Frankish courtier, monk, and abbot. The son of Walchisus, a kinsman of Pepin of Landen, was born around 605, near Verdun in the region, then known as Austrasia. He was educated at the Frankish court in Metz.

germanic

Wercyngetoryks

This name derives from the Pie (Proto Indo-European) and Germanic “*upo- * g’ hengh- *-reg > über ginxti-z *rīkijaz,” meaning “great king of warriors.” Vercingetorix (~82–46 BC) was the chieftain of the Arverni tribe, who united the Gauls in an ultimately unsuccessful revolt against Roman forces during the last phase of Julius Caesar’s Gallic Wars.

germanic

Wardell

watch hill

old english (anglo-saxon)

Webster

weave

old english (anglo-saxon)

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