Wilhelmina
/ˌvɪl.həlˈmiː.nə/noun
A female given name derived from the Germanic name Wilhelm, meaning “resolute protector.”
Did you know?Wilhelmina is the feminine form of Wilhelm, built from Proto-Germanic elements meaning “will/desire” and “helmet/protection,” a classic Germanic name pattern where identity itself was treated like armor.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*wiljô
“will, desire”
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*helmaz
“helmet, protective covering”
Old High German
OHG
Willahelm / Wilhelm
“a personal name meaning “will/desire-helmet” or “resolute protector””
Middle Dutch / German
MD / MHG
Wilhelm / Wilhelmina
“masculine and feminine personal names built from the same Germanic elements”
Modern English
English
Wilhelmina
“a female given name”