Leonilda is a unique and captivating female name of Latin origin. It is derived from the name "Leónilde," which is a compound of two Latin elements: "leo" meaning "lion" and "nildus" meaning "calm" or "peaceful." Therefore, Leonilda can be interpreted as "peaceful lioness."
The name Leonilda has a rich history and is often associated with the Iberian Peninsula, particularly Portugal. In fact, one of the earliest known references to this name comes from medieval Portuguese documents. It is also found in other Spanish-speaking countries, where it has been used since the Middle Ages.
In literature, Leonilda appears as a character in "The Lusiads," an epic poem written by the Portuguese poet Luís de Camões in the 16th century. This further contributes to the name's historical significance and cultural heritage.
Today, Leonilda remains a rare and distinctive name, offering a unique blend of strength and tranquility that reflects its etymology. Despite its rarity, it continues to be appreciated for its beautiful sound and its intriguing origins.
The name Leonilda has been used inconsistently over the years in the United States, with a total of 125 births recorded between 1909 and 1964. The peak years for this name were between 1920 and 1923, with ten babies named Leonilda each year during that period. However, there was a noticeable decrease in its popularity after the 1930s, with only six or seven births recorded per year until 1946. After 1946, there were no further records of the name Leonilda being given to newborn girls in the United States until at least 1964.