Son of William; resolute protector
Wilkes is an English patronymic surname derived from 'Wilke', a medieval diminutive of William. It combines the Germanic elements 'wil' (will or desire) and 'helm' (helmet or protection). While traditionally a surname, it has a history of use as a distinctive given name in the American South.
Less common today
Wilkes isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #3,630 in 2018.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Luxury retail pioneer and fashion icon
City named in part for John Wilkes, a British radical politician
