Willoughby
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Willoughby
Willoughby is an English boy name, which has 10 letters.
Willoughby is an English surname derived from the Old Norse name Viligbi, which is composed of the elements vilig (willow) and bi (dwelling). It is thought to have originally been a habitational name for someone who lived near a willow tree.
Rating
Be the first one to vote!
Log in to save this name to your favorites.
What to Expect When You're Expecting
Buy On Amazon
The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be
Buy On Amazon
Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide
Buy On Amazon
Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby's First Years
Buy On Amazon
Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
Buy On AmazonThese are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Detailed Information About The Name Willoughby
The name 'Willoughby' is of English origin and has a long history. It is derived from the Old English words "wilig" and "byr", meaning "willow tree" and "farm" respectively. With this etymology, the name carries with it a connection to nature and agriculture. Willoughby is a surname that can also be used as a given name. It has been found in records dating back to the 12th century, making it a name with deep roots in English history.
As a surname, Willoughby was often associated with noble and aristocratic families. One of the most notable bearers of the name was the influential Willoughby family of Wollaton in Nottinghamshire, England. The family played a significant role in English politics and held various titles and positions throughout the centuries. Their ancestral home, Wollaton Hall, is now a popular tourist attraction.
As a given name, Willoughby has a certain elegance and sophistication. It is not as common as some other names, which adds to its uniqueness. The name has been used in literature, particularly in Jane Austen's novel "Sense and Sensibility", where Colonel Brandon's estate is named Delaford, formerly known as Willoughby.
Today, Willoughby is still used as both a surname and a given name. Its timeless appeal and connection to nature make it a choice for parents looking for a name that is both classic and distinctive. The popularity of the name has seen a resurgence in recent years, reflecting a trend of reviving traditional and vintage names.
Search Baby Names & Meanings
Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!
Celebrity Baby Names
Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.
Celebrity Baby NamesNaming Your Baby
Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.
Naming Your Baby
Unusual Baby Names
Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.
Unusual Baby NamesBiblical Baby Names
Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!
Biblical Baby NamesTypes of Baby Names
The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.
Types of Baby Names