What is the meaning behind the name: ...... When it comes to the future King of England, the meaning is significant! According to royal historian Robert Lacey in People (opens in new tab), if King William eventually becomes king, he will be known as William IV. However, Prince Charles had originally proposed an entirely different name for his first son.

According to Lacey, when William was born in June 1982, Princess Diana had her way, while Prince Charles had proposed that their son be named Arthur. However, "Princess Diana suggested a more robust name, after "William the Conqueror," the victor of the Battle of Hastings in 1066," Lacey says. I must admit, though, that I like the sound of "Arthur II.

But Charles' suggestion was not entirely rejected either. The Duke of Cambridge's full name is Prince William Arthur Philip Louis. William, chosen by Princess Diana, came first, Arthur, chosen by Prince Charles, came second, a tribute to William's grandfather, Prince Philip, came third, and Louis, a family name, came fourth. [Prince William and Kate Middleton's second son was also named Louis, and his middle name is also Arthur. These are some of the big names!

But Lacey notes that Princess Diana knew early on that Prince William would be up to the task.