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Name Origin

Willa is a feminine given name of German origin, meaning 'resolute protector' or 'powerful warrior'. It is a diminutive of Wilhelmina, which itself derives from the Germanic elements 'wil' (will, desire) and 'helm' (helmet, protection).

germanfemininewarriorprotectorresolutepowerfuldiminitive

Famous People

Willa Cather (1873-1947)

Author

  • Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (1923)
  • Known for novels depicting pioneer life on the American frontier, such as 'My Ántonia' and 'O Pioneers!'
  • Influential figure in American literature

Willa Fitzgerald (1991-)

Actress

  • Known for roles in television series such as 'Scream: The TV Series' and 'Royal Pains'
  • Appeared in films including 'The Goldfinch'