A 1910s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Elda since 1880
Babies named Elda per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 148 |
| 1890s | 376 |
| 1900s | 558 |
| 1910s | 1,791 |
| 1920s | 1,934 |
| 1930s | 1,019 |
| 1940s | 673 |
| 1950s | 565 |
| 1960s | 480 |
| 1970s | 370 |
| 1980s | 279 |
| 1990s | 302 |
| 2000s | 230 |
| 2010s | 155 |
| 2020s | 90 |
Meaning & origin
Elda is a succinct Italian name with Germanic roots, meaning 'old' or 'wise'. It first appeared on the U.S. baby name charts in 1880 and reached its highest ranking of 5917 in 2024, with a peak in usage during 1915. In 2024, it was given to about 1 in every 80,363 girls. The name has been rising in popularity since 2022, charting a comeback after decades of decline (it nearly disappeared). While its top state is California, Elda's revival may reflect broader interest in vintage, short names. Sibling suggestions stay within the early 20th-century Italian and German aesthetic: Ada, Leo, Irma, and others like it. The name's trajectory points to a niche but growing appeal.
Elda developed as an Italian diminutive or variant of names such as Alda, itself from Germanic elements meaning 'old' or 'aged', connoting wisdom. It has also been used as a feminine form of Eldo and, in some contexts, as a variant of Hilda, though this connection is debated. The name saw modest use in the United States during the early 20th century, peaking in 1915, before declining and re-emerging in recent years.
Where Elda is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Elda
Names that share Elda's style, for a brother or sister.
