Liam is a highly popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #15 in 1997 with 4,743 recorded births. This places Liam in the top 1% of ranked UK boys' names for the year. Its actual usage is classified as Popular. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 5,802 births ranking #10. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 18.3%. In 1997, approximately 1 in every 66 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.