Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Willa

      Origin

      American

      Meaning

      Feminine form of Will

      Variations

      Willam, Willard, Willamena
      The name Willa, derived from the American language, is a feminine form of the name Will, which is of Germanic origin. Will, originally a diminutive of William, means resolute protector or strong-willed warrior. The name Willa carries similar connotations, highlighting qualities such as determination, strength, and protection in a feminine context.

      In history, the name Willa can be traced back to the early 19th century in the United States. It gained popularity as parents started seeking unique and independent monikers for their daughters. Willa Cather, a renowned American author who lived from 1873 to 1947, serves as a notable historical figure associated with this name. Her literary achievements brought the name Willa into the public eye, instilling it with a sense of intelligence, creativity, and influence.

      In modern-day usage, the name Willa remains relatively uncommon, yet its charm persists. It continues to be chosen by parents looking for a name that conveys strength, femininity, and individuality. Willa strikes a balance between classic elegance and contemporary appeal, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name that is both timeless and distinctive. Though not as frequently used as other names, the prominence of cultural figures like Willa Holland, an American actress, ensures that the name Willa maintains a unique and notable presence in modern society.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Willa.

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1920 is when there were the most people born with the first name Willa.

      Explore the origins of another name.