The correct spelling of the name "Willford" is /ˈwɪlfərd/. It is composed of two syllables: "wil" and "ford". The first syllable, "wil", is pronounced as /wɪl/, with a short "i" sound like in "pill" and a soft "l". The second syllable, "ford", is pronounced as /fərd/, with a short "o" sound like in "lot" and a "d" sound. Therefore, the phonetic transcription for "Willford" is essential to ensure the correct pronunciation of the name.
The etymology of the word "Willford" is a combination of the Old English elements "will" (desire, determination) and "ford" (a shallow place in a river where it can be crossed). "Willford" likely originated as a surname or a place name, denoting someone who lived near or crossed a river at a shallow point with determination or will. Over time, it may have been adopted as a personal name.