All about the name

Wilda

Female

« Wilda is a rare and distinctive name of Latin origin meaning 'wild', first used as a given name in the late 19th-century U.S., possibly inspired by other names like Wilma or Mildred. »

#24818 over 5 years

Meaning, origin, history

Wilda is a unique and distinctive name of Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "vildus," which means "wild" or "undisciplined." However, it's important to note that there are no historical records of Wilda being used as a given name in ancient Rome or any other period. The earliest known use of Wilda as a given name was in the United States during the late 19th century. It is believed to have been created by combining elements from other names, such as Wilma and Mildred, possibly influenced by the English word "wild." Despite its unique origin, Wilda has not gained significant popularity as a given name. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, there are only a handful of people named Wilda born each year. In literature, one notable character named Wilda appears in the novel "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed. However, this novel was published in 2012 and is unlikely to have influenced the name's origin. Instead, it seems that Wilda as a given name emerged independently over time, perhaps inspired by its unique meaning or sound. In conclusion, Wilda is an unusual and interesting name with a Latin root meaning "wild." While there are no historical records of Wilda being used as a given name in ancient times, it has been used sparingly in the United States since the late 19th century. Its rarity makes it a distinctive choice for those looking for an uncommon name with a meaningful origin.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Wilda since 1880

Total births
12,758
Total since 1880
Peak year
1926
411 births
in 2022
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-38%
vs previous 5 years