wilhelm
wilhelm Lexical Profile
• noun
A traditional Germanic masculine given name, famously borne by two German Emperors and various European royalty.
"Kaiser Wilhelm II was the last German Emperor, ruling the German Empire and the Kingdom of Prussia until his abdication in 1918."
A famous stock sound effect, most commonly known as the Wilhelm scream, used frequently in film and television to depict a person falling from a great height or being thrown by an explosion.
"The sound designer sneaked a classic Wilhelm into the background audio as the villain was knocked off the bridge."
Word Nuance & Usage
Most frequently encountered in English historical contexts referring to German Kaisers, or in pop culture referring to the famous 'Wilhelm scream' stock sound effect.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old High German 'Willahelm', composed of the elements 'willo' (will or desire) and 'helm' (helmet or protection). It is the Germanic equivalent of the English name William.