Willow

Updated May 24, 2023

Table of contents

Girl name origins & meanings

English: Freedom; tree

What does Willow mean and stand for?

The name Willow is of English origin and means "willow tree" and "freedom." It was derived from the Old English word welig, meaning “willow.” Willow trees are associated with grace and elegance, giving meaning to the word "willowy."

Syllables: 2

Discover more baby name meanings to learn what's behind every name.

Girl name variations

Boy name origins & meanings

English: Willow

How Popular Is The Name Willow

Family name origins & meanings

English: topographic name for someone who lived in an area where willows grew or by a conspicuous willow tree, from an unattested Old English word, wilig.

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Popularity of the Name Willow

According to Social Security Administration data, Willow has been consistently popular, breaking the top 50 for the first time in 2019. It ranked at 761 in 2000 but didn't break the top 100 until 2016, at which point it rapidly gained popularity.

However, it is the 8th most popular name on FamilyEducation.com.

According to Google search data analysis, in the last five years, Willow was at its peak popularity in July 2020.

Willow has gained popularity as the symbolism of a willow tree appears in works from Shakespeare to Harry Potter. The name has especially taken off after the introduction of Willow from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Willow has been chosen by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, Michelle Monaghan, and Pink. Pink herself stated that the choice was inspired by willow trees, which are strong and can withstand high winds.