Freda is a unique and captivating name of English origin. It is a variation of the name Frieda, which has German roots. The name Frieda comes from the Germanic elements "fridu" meaning peace and "wide" meaning broad or wide. Therefore, the name Freda can be interpreted as meaning "peaceful and broad-minded."
The name Freda gained popularity during the Victorian era in England when it was often used as a short form of Frieda or Fredericka. It was also used as an independent given name, reflecting the trend towards unique and distinctive names during this period.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Freda. One of the most famous is Freda Kahlo, a Mexican artist known for her self-portraits and vibrant paintings that reflected her life and cultural heritage. Freda Dudley Ward was another prominent figure, serving as the official hostess of the British Embassy in Rome during World War I.
Today, Freda continues to be a distinctive and memorable name, often chosen by parents seeking unique options for their children. It is also a popular choice among those who appreciate its historical significance and cultural associations. Overall, Freda is a name that embodies strength, individuality, and rich history.
The name Freda has been given to a total of 42,487 babies born in the United States since 1880. The popularity of this name has fluctuated over time, with peaks and valleys in its usage.
In the late 19th century, around 30-40 births per year were recorded with the name Freda. However, at the turn of the century, the number began to increase steadily. By 1908, there were already more than 300 babies named Freda each year.
The trend continued into the early 20th century, reaching a peak in 1915 with over 940 births. This high level of popularity was maintained throughout the 1920s and early 1930s, with around 600-800 births per year.
However, after World War II, the usage of the name Freda began to decline. By the late 1940s, there were fewer than 500 births per year. This downward trend continued through the 1950s and 1960s, reaching an all-time low in 1962 with only 342 births.
In recent decades, the name Freda has become quite rare. Since the 1970s, fewer than 100 babies have been named Freda each year on average. Despite this, some years still see a handful of newborn girls being given this distinctive name.
As of 2023, the total number of births recorded with the name Freda stands at 42,487. This figure is a testament to the enduring appeal of this unique name across generations in the United States.