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Hildegarde Girl

Popularity: · Trend: → Stable

Origin(s)

PronunciationHIL-de-gard / /ˈhɪl.də.ɡɑːrd/

German; Old High German

Meaning

German: battle maiden; Old High German: strong in battle

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Hildegarde has its roots in the Germanic elements "hild," meaning "battle," and "gard," meaning "enclosure" or "protection." This name was first recorded in various forms in the early medieval period, with the Old High German version being "Hildegard," which later evolved into the Latinized form "Hildegarde." The name entered the English language through the influence of Norman French after the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, where it was adopted in various forms, including "Hildegarde" and "Hildegarde."

Historically, one of the most notable figures bearing this name was Saint Hildegard of Bingen, a 12th-century Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, and visionary. She is recognized for her contributions to theology, music, and medicine, and her works were influential in the medieval period. Her canonization process began in the 15th century, and she was officially recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church in the 20th century. The name gained further prominence through her legacy, particularly during the Renaissance when interest in her writings and music was revived.

Culturally, the name Hildegarde has been associated with strength and protection, reflecting its etymological roots. It has often been linked to themes of leadership and resilience, particularly in the context of female figures in history. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms, such as "Hilda," which has been used in different cultures. Overall, Hildegarde embodies a rich historical and cultural significance, representing a blend of strength, spirituality, and artistic expression.

Trend Summary

Hildegarde has seen a decline in popularity in the United States, with very few births recorded in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Hildegarde
  • Hildegard

International Variants

  • Hildegarde (French)
  • Hildegard (German)

Famous people named Hildegarde

Hildegarde is a singer and actress best known for her performances in the 1940s and 1950s, particularly in the musical theater and cabaret scenes.

Fictional characters named Hildegarde

Hildegarde is a fictional character from the animated series The Fairly OddParents. She is a fairy who serves as a mentor and guide to the main character, Timmy Turner.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Hildegarde was first seen in the United States in 1885. Hildegarde has ranked as high as #710 nationally, which occurred in 1915, and has been most popular in Wisconsin, New York, Minnesota, Ohio, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Hildegarde has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Hildegarde (1946)

StateBirthsShare
NY 7
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18858
18878
18888
189017
189119
189212
189313
189411
189515
189619
189721
189831
189925
190030
190130
190220
190322
190433
190533
190633
190728
190835
190930
191039
191138
191254
191370
191474
1915124
1916108
191779
191877
191956
192064
192170
192263
192360
192446
192560
192644
192756
192846
192954
193047
193140
193237
193329
193424
193526
193634
193723
193829
193919
194023
194123
194220
194320
194413
19458
194619
19478
19488
19497
19508
195110
19527
195312
19547
19557
19565
19586
19596
19605
196113