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Wilda Girl

Popularity: · Trend: → Stable

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: WIL-duh /ˈwɪldə/

Origin: German; English

Meaning: German: wild; English: brave

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Wilda has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "wild," which means "untamed" or "savage." This etymology reflects a connection to nature and the wilderness, suggesting a spirit of independence and freedom. The transition into modern English likely occurred through the influence of various Germanic languages, where similar forms can be found.

The name has also been associated with the Old High German word "wild," which carries the same meaning, further solidifying its linguistic heritage. Historically, the name Wilda does not have prominent figures or events directly associated with it, unlike more common names.

However, it gained some recognition in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, where names reflecting nature and wildness became more popular. The romanticism of the wilderness during this period may have contributed to the name's appeal, as it resonated with the ideals of exploration and the untamed spirit of the American frontier.

Culturally, Wilda embodies themes of nature and individuality, often associated with a strong, free-spirited character. This connection to the wild has made it a symbol of strength and resilience.

While diminutive forms such as "Willy" or "Wildie" may exist, they are less commonly noted in historical texts. Overall, the name Wilda carries with it a sense of adventure and a deep-rooted connection to the natural world, reflecting the values and sentiments of the eras in which it has appeared.

Famous people named Wilda

Wilda B. Smith is a botanist best known for her work on the flora of the southeastern United States.
Wilda G. McMahon is a writer best known for her contributions to children's literature.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Wilda was first seen in the United States in 1880. Wilda has ranked as high as #546 nationally, which occurred in 1926, and has been most popular in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Louisiana, and Missouri. In the past 5 years the name Wilda has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Wilda (1990)

State Births Share
FL 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188011
18826
188311
18849
188510
188614
188713
188824
188925
189019
189114
189231
189322
189435
189531
189637
189738
189849
189933
190048
190138
190250
190349
190460
190564
190648
190758
190866
190953
191077
191189
1912137
1913133
1914177
1915261
1916283
1917302
1918332
1919310
1920331
1921327
1922371
1923350
1924362
1925393
1926411
1927389
1928361
1929348
1930340
1931276
1932307
1933288
1934255
1935257
1936239
1937230
1938210
1939216
1940205
1941185
1942208
1943182
1944177
1945144
1946156
1947147
1948143
1949152
1950118
1951118
1952107
1953124
195498
195590
195694
195796
195887
195961
196063
196142
196268
196353
196437
196559
196636
196733
196817
196923
197019
197114
197221
197326
19749
197517
197614
197710
19787
197917
19808
19819
198215
198311
19847
19858
19867
19875
19885
19897
199012
19915
19927
19939
19945
19956
19968
20016
20158
20225