Liam is an extremely popular boys' name in United States, ranking #1 in 2022 with 20,563 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2024 with 22,164 births ranking #1. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 1,076.4%. In 2022, approximately 1 in every 85 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.