Liam is an extremely popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #10 in 1996 with 5,802 recorded births. This places Liam in the top 1% of ranked UK boys' names for the year. Its actual usage is classified as Very Popular. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 5,802 births ranking #10. In 1996, approximately 1 in every 55 boys born was named Liam. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Liam is an Irish short form of William and carries the same broad meaning of determined or resolute protection. It has become one of the defining boys' names of the modern era.
The name rose from Irish use into worldwide popularity and later became especially dominant in the United States. Its success comes from how easily it combines heritage, brevity, and warmth.