Alida is a unique and elegant female name of Dutch origin. Its meaning is derived from the Old Germanic elements "adal" meaning noble or nobility, and "hild" which means battle. Thus, Alida signifies "noble in battle." This name has a strong and powerful connotation, reflecting the spirit of valor and courage.
The name Alida first appeared during the Middle Ages in the Netherlands. It was quite popular among the Dutch aristocracy and has been passed down through generations. Despite its early popularity, Alida is not as common today, making it a distinctive choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughter.
Historically, there have been several notable figures named Alida. One of the most famous was Alida van Hout (1583-1679), a Dutch painter and poet who was known for her landscapes and portraits. Her work is considered part of the Dutch Golden Age. Another notable figure is Alida Lademans (born 1940), a Dutch writer known for her children's books.
In literature, Alida has also made appearances as a character name. In the novel "The Pillow Book" by Jane Rogers, the main character is named Alida. This further contributes to the uniqueness and charm of this name.
Overall, Alida is a timeless and powerful female name with a rich history and meaningful origins. Its unique sound and rare usage make it an excellent choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet significant name for their daughter.
Based on these statistics, the name Alida seems to have had varying popularity over time. The highest number of births in a single year was 64 in 1917, while the lowest was 17 in both 1880 and 1901. There are fluctuations throughout the decades, with some periods showing consistently higher numbers than others. For example, from 1913 to 1923, there were more than 30 births each year, reaching a peak in 1917. However, from the late 1980s onwards, the number of births named Alida steadily decreased, with the most recent years showing fewer than 30 births per year. Overall, while Alida was once a popular name, its usage has declined in recent decades.