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Wilbur

Wilbur

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Table of Contents
1. Wilbur name meaning and origin
2. Wilbur name popularity
3. Variations and nicknames of Wilbur
4. Best name combinations with Wilbur
5. Numerology of Wilbur name
6. Wilbur name in pop culture
7. Famous people named Wilbur
8. Names similar to Wilbur

1. Wilbur name meaning and origin

Wilbur is an Anglo-Saxon masculine given name derived from the Old English elements 'wil' meaning 'will' or 'desire' and 'burh' meaning 'fortress' or 'protection'. The name essentially translates to 'resolute protector' or 'bright fortress', suggesting strength and determination. It gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

While relatively uncommon in contemporary use, Wilbur achieved notable recognition through historical figures such as Wilbur Wright, one of the Wright brothers who pioneered aviation. The name has maintained its association with reliability and steadfast character throughout its history, despite fluctuations in popularity. Though traditional in nature, Wilbur represents the enduring Anglo-Saxon naming traditions that emphasized qualities of strength, protection, and resolve.

References:

2. Wilbur name popularity

Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Wilbur
United States
United Kingdom

Source: UK Office for National Statistics & US Social Security Administration

Wilbur is primarily a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon origins, derived from "wild" and "boar," symbolizing strength and determination. Despite its long history in both the United States and United Kingdom, Wilbur has remained relatively uncommon in recent decades, not appearing in top ranking charts for either country.

The name gained some recognition in American culture through notable figures like Wilbur Wright of aviation fame and as the title character's human friend in E.B. White's beloved children's novel "Charlotte's Web." Though occasionally used as a female name in the US, this usage is exceedingly rare, with the masculine form being the traditional choice across both nations.

3. Variations and nicknames of Wilbur

The name Wilbur has Germanic roots, originating from the elements 'wil' meaning desire or will, and 'beraht' meaning bright or famous. Throughout history, this distinctive name has evolved into several variants across different cultures and languages. In German-speaking regions, Wilbert represents a common alternative, while Wilbur transformed into Wilbrecht in medieval Germanic territories. The French variant Guilbert emerged during the Norman conquest of England, eventually influencing the English adoption of the name. In Scandinavian countries, Vilbor appears as a regional adaptation, while the Latin-influenced variant Wilberus was documented in ecclesiastical texts. The Spanish and Portuguese cultures adapted the name to Guilberto, and in Eastern European languages, particularly Polish, Wilbart occasionally surfaces as a variant.

As with many traditional names, Wilbur has inspired numerous affectionate nicknames and diminutives. The most common informal versions include Will, Wil, and Willie, which serve as convenient shortenings in everyday use. More playful nicknames like Wilby, Billie, and Wibs offer casual alternatives among friends and family. In childhood settings, endearing forms such as Willy-Bear, Wilbee, or simply Bur often emerge. The nickname Webb occasionally derives from Wilbur, stemming from the middle consonant sound. Among older generations, the nickname Sonny sometimes accompanied Wilbur, particularly when distinguishing between family members sharing the name. Professional environments might see the more formal Bill used as an alternative, while close companions might opt for the affectionate Burry or simply W as personal terms of endearment.

4. Best name combinations with Wilbur

Middle names that pair well with Wilbur:

  • Wilbur James
  • Wilbur Alexander
  • Wilbur Theodore
  • Wilbur Nathaniel
  • Wilbur Sebastian
  • Wilbur Elliot
  • Wilbur Santiago
  • Wilbur Maximilian
  • Wilbur Gabriel
  • Wilbur Harrison
  • Wilbur Frederick
  • Wilbur Emmanuel
  • Wilbur Augustine
  • Wilbur Dominic
  • Wilbur Bennett
  • Wilbur Oliver
  • Wilbur Quentin
  • Wilbur Vincent
  • Wilbur Thaddeus
  • Wilbur Malcolm

Names that go well when Wilbur is used as a middle name:

  • Charles Wilbur
  • Henry Wilbur
  • Samuel Wilbur
  • Thomas Wilbur
  • Edward Wilbur
  • Jonathan Wilbur
  • Franklin Wilbur
  • Lawrence Wilbur
  • George Wilbur
  • Benjamin Wilbur
  • Nicholas Wilbur
  • William Wilbur
  • Montgomery Wilbur
  • Archibald Wilbur
  • Reginald Wilbur
  • Alistair Wilbur
  • Bartholomew Wilbur
  • Atticus Wilbur
  • Theodore Wilbur
  • Winston Wilbur

5. Numerology of Wilbur name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

4
W(5) + I(9) + L(3) + B(2) + U(3) + R(9) = 31 = 3+1 = 4

The Destiny Number 4 suggests a practical, methodical, and reliable individual. This indicates someone who thrives on structure, organization, and building solid foundations. In career, you excel in roles requiring attention to detail, planning, and persistent effort. In relationships, you offer stability and dependability, though you may need to work on flexibility. Your life path involves creating order from chaos and establishing systems that endure.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

3
I(9) + U(3) = 12 = 1+2 = 3

With a Soul Urge of 3, your inner desire is for self-expression, creativity, and joy. You crave opportunities to communicate and share ideas with others. You're naturally optimistic and may be drawn to artistic or communication-based careers. In relationships, you seek fun, inspiration, and emotional connection. Your heart yearns to bring beauty and positivity into the world through your unique voice.

Personality Number:

1
W(5) + L(3) + B(2) + R(9) = 19 = 1+9 = 10 = 1+0 = 1

The Personality Number 1 reveals that you present yourself as independent, pioneering, and confident. Others see you as a natural leader with strong determination. This outer personality supports careers in leadership, entrepreneurship, or roles requiring initiative. In relationships, you appear self-assured and direct, though you may need to soften your approach at times. You make first impressions as someone who can forge new paths and overcome obstacles.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Wilbur name in pop culture

Name
Description
Wilbur the pig
The main character in E.B. White's classic children's novel 'Charlotte's Web' and its film adaptations
Wilbur Robinson
The deuteragonist from Disney's 2007 animated film 'Meet the Robinsons'
Mr. Wilbur
Character played by comedian Jackie Gleason in the 1963 film 'Soldier in the Rain'
Wilbur Wright
Real historical figure portrayed in various films and documentaries about aviation, including the 2003 TV movie 'The Wright Brothers'
Wilbur Post
Main character played by Alan Young in the 1960s CBS television comedy series 'Mister Ed'

7. Famous people named Wilbur

Name
Description
Wilbur Wright
American aviation pioneer who, together with his brother Orville, is credited with inventing and building the world's first successful airplane and making the first controlled, powered human flight
Wilbur Ross
American investor and politician who served as the United States Secretary of Commerce under President Donald Trump
Wilbur Smith
Internationally acclaimed South African novelist specializing in historical fiction about the southern regions of Africa
Wilbur Scoville
American pharmacist best known for creating the Scoville scale for measuring the heat of peppers
Wilbur Soot
English internet personality, musician, and Twitch streamer known for his involvement with Minecraft groups and his indie music career
Wilbur Sargunaraj
Indian-Canadian musician, filmmaker, and performer often referred to as 'India's first YouTube star'
Wilbur Snapp
Famous baseball stadium organist known for being ejected from a game for playing 'Three Blind Mice' after a controversial call
Wilbur Wood
American former professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball, known for his knuckleball pitch
Wilbur Hardee
American businessman and founder of the Hardee's fast food restaurant chain
Wilbur Shaw
American racing driver who won the Indianapolis 500 three times and later became president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

8. Names similar to Wilbur

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Baby name lists including Wilbur

Table of Contents
1. Wilbur name meaning and origin
2. Wilbur name popularity
3. Variations and nicknames of Wilbur
4. Best name combinations with Wilbur
5. Numerology of Wilbur name
6. Wilbur name in pop culture
7. Famous people named Wilbur
8. Names similar to Wilbur
Baby name lists including Wilbur