Willa

Germanic in origin, Willa is a girl’s that has increased in popularity over the yeras, making it into the top 500 feminine given names in 2015. A diminutive of Wilhelmina and a feminine version of Wilhelm or William, Willa is a particularly strong name to give baby. In Old High German, wil translates to “will” or “desire,” while helm means “helmet” or “protection.” Together, they mean “resolute protection,” a bold moniker for baby to wield throughout her life. Willa is perhaps best known as the name of Willa Cather, the Pulitzer Prize-winning American author who penned such iconic works as O Pioneers! and My Antonia. Such a legendary writer makes for an inspiring namesake for baby.