Billie
Billie is a boy's name of Germanic origin.
Meaning
Resolute protector or desire-helmet.
Origin and history
Billie originated as a diminutive of William, which comes from Old German elements meaning 'will' and 'helmet'. Though historically common for males in the early-to-mid 20th century in the United States, its modern usage as a masculine given name is rare. Today, it is recognized as a classic, retro unisex option.
Popularity in the United States
31,637 babies in the United States have been named Billie since 1880. It ranks #662 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1876.
States where it is most popular
- TX (18.4 %)
- TN (7.6 %)
- KY (6.9 %)
- OK (6.2 %)
- NC (5.8 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 123 |
| 1890-1900 | 109 |
| 1900-1910 | 214 |
| 1910-1920 | 1,656 |
| 1920-1930 | 9,548 |
| 1930-1940 | 9,703 |
| 1940-1950 | 3,742 |
| 1950-1960 | 2,183 |
| 1960-1970 | 1,678 |
| 1970-1980 | 1,203 |
| 1980-1990 | 751 |
| 1990-2000 | 382 |
| 2000-2010 | 198 |
| 2010-2019 | 96 |
| 2020-2029 | 51 |
Famous people named Billie
- Billie Joe Armstrong: Musician, Singer
- Billie Jean King: Tennis Player, Athlete
Fun facts
- Billie developed as an affectionate diminutive of Bill, which itself arose from the traditional nickname for William.
- Billie was frequently given to boys in the U.S. throughout the early 20th century, peak-ranking inside the top 100 for males in the 1920s and 1930s.