Meaning & Story
A Germanic feminine name meaning will-helmet or resolute protector — from the Old High German elements wil (will, desire) and helm (helmet, protection) — carried into English through Dutch and German royalty, particularly Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands.
Wilhelmina is a name of staggering dignity, and it is absolutely magnificent on the right pet. It requires commitment — you need to be the kind of person who can say Wilhelmina with a straight face in a dog park — but the rewards are considerable. This was the name of the Dutch queen who led her government in exile during World War II with remarkable courage and resourcefulness. For an imposing, dignified, thoroughly excellent dog who commands respect, or a cat who has simply decided she is royalty, Wilhelmina is unmatched. Mina makes a charming nickname.