Liam
Liam first appears in US records in 1947. It peaked in 2024, when 22,252 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 20,818.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Liam popular?
Near its peak Liam is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2024.
| 2020s | 124,842 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 174,017 | |
| 2000s | 44,940 | |
| 1990s | 11,904 | |
| 1980s | 1,527 | |
| 1970s | 784 | |
| 1960s | 400 | |
| 1950s | 117 | |
| 1940s | 5 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Liam mean?
Liam is an Irish short form of William, itself from the Germanic Wilhelm — wil (will, desire) plus helm (helmet, protection) — giving the sense “resolute protector” or “strong-willed guardian.”
Nicknames for Liam
- Li
Variants & spellings
- William
- Uilliam
Names like Liam
Irish names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Liam
Popular Irish names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Liam
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Liam mean?
Liam means Resolute protector. Liam is an Irish short form of William, itself from the Germanic Wilhelm — wil (will, desire) plus helm (helmet, protection) — giving the sense “resolute protector” or “strong-willed guardian.”
What is the origin of the name Liam?
Liam is of Irish origin.
How do you pronounce Liam?
Liam is pronounced “LEE-am.”
Is Liam a boy or a girl name?
Liam is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Liam a popular name right now?
Liam is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2024.
How popular is the name Liam?
In 2025, Liam ranked #1 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Liam most popular?
Liam was most popular in 2024, when about 22,252 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Liam?
Common nicknames for Liam include Li.
What names are similar to Liam?
Names similar to Liam include Noah, Ethan, Owen, Finn.
What names go well with Liam?
Irish names that pair well with Liam include Ryan, Aiden, Riley, Nora, Nolan.