Billy

Billy is a masculine given name and a common diminutive of William. In many English-speaking countries it is used as a standalone given name as well as a nickname, often conveying familiarity or informality.

Etymology and variants: Billy derives from William, which in turn comes from the Germanic Wilhelm, formed from wil “will or desire” and helm “helmet, protection.” The diminutive forms Bill and Billy developed in English-speaking regions from the 19th century onward and have been widely used as names in their own right.

Notable people named Billy include the outlaw Billy the Kid (William H. Bonney), evangelist Billy Graham, musicians Billy Joel, Billy Ocean, and Billy Corgan, comedians Billy Crystal and Billy Connolly, film director Billy Wilder, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, and actor Billy Burke. These individuals span a range of fields such as music, entertainment, religion, and film.

Related names include Bill and Will, as well as the formal given name William.