Family Names

  1. Whittney
    • Description:

      Whittney is a variant spelling of Whitney, a feminine name that originated as an English surname derived from place names meaning "white island" in Old English. This alternate spelling emerged in the late 20th century as parents sought to personalize the popular name while maintaining its familiar sound. The additional 't' gives the name a slightly distinctive visual character. Whitney saw peak popularity in the 1980s and early 1990s, partly influenced by singer Whitney Houston, with the Whittney variant following this trend but remaining much less common. The name carries associations with elegance and refinement. Despite its Old English origins, Whitney and its variants have a contemporary feel, balancing traditional roots with modern style. The name typically conveys a sense of brightness and clarity, reflecting its etymological connection to whiteness.

  2. William
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "resolute protection"
    • Description:

      William is one of the most enduring of classic names for boys. It's also among the most popular boys' names, as American parents see it as being ideally conservative yet contemporary, and hands-down the most popular baby name beginning with W of all time.
  3. Willie
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of William
    • Description:

      There have been many great Willies (Mays, Nelson, Wonka), but a boy with this name could never ever go to England. Most people will also assume it is short for the more traditional William, which might be the best avenue for achieving this nickname.
  4. Wright
    • Description:

      Wright is a masculine name that originated as an English occupational surname referring to a craftsman or builder—specifically a woodworker or carpenter (from the Old English "wyrhta," meaning "worker"). As a first name, Wright carries strong traditional and artisanal connotations, suggesting skill, craftsmanship, and creation. It remains relatively uncommon as a given name, maintaining an air of distinction and uniqueness. The name has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and consonant blend. Those named Wright might appreciate the name's connections to craftsmanship and its subtle suggestion that one can build or create their own path in life. Its surname-as-first-name style also reflects contemporary naming trends.

  5. Yolanda
    • Origin:

      Spanish from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "violet flower"
    • Description:

      Bold and distinctive, Yolanda is a floral name that doesn't sound frilly or delicate. Ultimately deriving from the Greek words ioles meaning "violet" and anthos meaning "flower", it appears in a variety of forms internationally, including Jolanda, Jolanta, Iolanthe, Iolanta, Iolanda, and Jolana.
  6. Yvonne
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "yew wood"
    • Description:

      Peaking in the 1950s, Yvonne has now dropped out of the Top 1000 in 2003 and doesn't look set to return soon, although its rare Y initial might endear it to some. Yvaine, from Neil Gaiman's Stardust, has more modern appeal.
  7. Yoshayla
    • Youngsun