Ernest vs William
Choosing between Ernest and William? Compare meanings, origins, and popularity trends to find the perfect baby name.
Ernest
Gender: boy
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: Serious, resolute
Peak: 1895 (0.66%)
William
Gender: boy
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: Resolute protector
Peak: 1880 (8.05%)
Popularity Comparison
| Year | Ernest | William |
|---|---|---|
| 1880 | 0.52% | 8.05% |
| 1890 | 0.65% | 6.26% |
| 1900 | 0.62% | 5.29% |
| 1910 | 0.56% | 4.24% |
| 1920 | 0.51% | 4.56% |
| 1930 | 0.42% | 4.19% |
| 1940 | 0.31% | 3.78% |
| 1950 | 0.24% | 3.34% |
| 1960 | 0.15% | 2.28% |
| 1970 | 0.12% | 2.04% |
| 1980 | 0.07% | 1.38% |
| 1990 | 0.04% | 1.16% |
| 2000 | 0.02% | 0.99% |
Parents Also Consider
FAQ
Is Ernest or William more popular?
William has historically been more popular. Ernest peaked in 1895 while William peaked in 1880.
What is the meaning of Ernest?
Ernest means "Serious, resolute" and has Germanic origins.
What is the meaning of William?
William means "Resolute protector" and has Germanic origins.
Can Ernest and William be used as sibling names?
Ernest and William can work well as sibling names. They share Germanic origins, giving a cohesive feel.