Willow ford or peaceful ford
Derived from Old English elements, Wilford likely refers to a shallow river crossing (ford) near willow trees. It may also be interpreted as a variant of Wilfred, meaning 'desiring peace' from the Germanic elements 'wil' and 'frid'.
Less common today
Wilford isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #3,327 in 1991.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
American actor known for 'Cocoon' and Quaker Oats commercials
Fourth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Tony Award-winning theater director
