Williams (surname)


Williams is a patronymic form of the name William that originated in medieval England, Wales, France, and Italy. The meaning is derived from son or descendant of William, the Northern French form that also gave the English name William. Derived from an Old French given name with Germanic elements; will = desire, will; and helm = helmet, protection. It is the second most common surname in New Zealand; third most common in Wales and the United States and fourth most common in Australia.

Earliest usage

The earliest recorded use of the surname;