Willodean

The Social Security Lists show this name to have been used throughout the 1920s and 30s especially in Southern states, where it likely appealed alongside Clarabel and Marigold. It feels part double-barrel, part surname, and part nature-inspired, which may encourage more parents to consider it in the future.

There are a few theories on its origins: an invented name created to honor a William or a Willard, a smoosh of Willa or Willow with the English Dean, an Anglicization of a (now unknown) Native American name, or simply a spin on Wilhelmina, inspired by Geraldine and similar. Wherever it came from, it has a willowy sweetness that deserves a comeback.

Willodene, Willadean, Willowdean and Willadene are alternative spellings.

Pronounced WIL-oh-deen.

As of October 2026, Willodean ranked #5393 in US births in 1958 SSA, peaked at #830 in 1928.