WILLETS

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Willets

The surname "Willets" is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the personal name "Wilhelm," a compound of the Germanic elements "wil," meaning "will," and "helm," meaning "helmet" or "protection." The name was introduced to Britain by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066.

The Willets surname is classified as a patronymic or metronymic surname, indicating that it was originally based on the first name of a male ancestor. Over time, the name evolved into a hereditary surname passed down through generations.

Variants of the Willets surname include Willet, Willetts, Willetson, and Willet's, among others. The distribution of the surname across Britain historically shows concentrations in areas such as Staffordshire, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire.

Individuals bearing the surname Willets have been noted in various historical records and genealogical archives, indicating the longstanding presence of this surname in British history. The name has likely spread to other English-speaking countries as a result of migration and colonial expansion.

Today, the Willets surname continues to be borne by individuals across the United Kingdom and beyond, reflecting a rich genealogical heritage tied to the name's historical roots.

There are approximately 233 people named Willets in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Willets.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Anthony
Christopher
Daniel
David
Gary
James
Jason
John
Mark
Matthew
Richard
Robert
Ronald
Wayne
William

Female

Amy
Betty
Donna
Doreen
Elizabeth
Emma
Janice
Jeane
Karen
Kelly
Margaret
Mary
Ruth
Sharon

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.