Definition of: William

(wil′yəm)
A masculine personal name. Also Du. Wil·lem (vil′əm). See also WILHELM. [<Gmc., resolute protection]
—William I,
1027–87, invaded England, 1066; king of England 1066–87: known as William the Conqueror.
—William II,
1056–1100, king of England 1087–1100: known as William Rufus.
—William III,
1650–1702, stadholder of Holland 1672–1702; invited to England; ruled 1689–1702 jointly with his wife Mary.
—William IV,
1765–1837, king of England 1830–37.
—William of Malmesbury,
1095?–1143? English historian.
—William of Orange,
1533–84, founded the Dutch republic; stadholder 1579–84: called “William the Silent.”