Wylie
Wylie is a boy's name of English origin.
Meaning
Tricky, clever, or coming from Wylye (tricky river / watermill meadow).
Origin and history
Wylie is an English name originating either as a habitational surname from places called Wylye or Wylam, or as a medieval diminutive of William. Historically used as a masculine surname and given name, it has seen steady, modest usage in the United States over the decades. Today it appeals to parents seeking a rustic, classic, yet uncommon choice with a surname feel.
Popularity in the United States
6,073 babies in the United States have been named Wylie since 1880. It ranks #1546 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1186.
States where it is most popular
- TX (38.1 %)
- SC (13.4 %)
- CA (10.6 %)
- GA (10.5 %)
- NC (4 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 115 |
| 1890-1900 | 101 |
| 1900-1910 | 116 |
| 1910-1920 | 406 |
| 1920-1930 | 549 |
| 1930-1940 | 528 |
| 1940-1950 | 481 |
| 1950-1960 | 385 |
| 1960-1970 | 317 |
| 1970-1980 | 292 |
| 1980-1990 | 251 |
| 1990-2000 | 306 |
| 2000-2010 | 545 |
| 2010-2019 | 873 |
| 2020-2029 | 808 |
Famous people named Wylie
- Wylie Sypher: Art Historian, Author
- Wylie Draper: Actor, Dancer
Fun facts
- One primary origin is the River Wylye in Wiltshire, England, thought to derive from a Celtic word meaning tricky or winding river.
- In medieval England, Wylie also served as a diminutive form of the given name William.