Melida

Meaning & origin

Melida is a rare and gentle name with a soft, melodic sound. Its earliest recorded appearance in U.S. Social Security data is 1917, but it has never reached the top 1,000. The name saw its peak year in 1976, when it was used more frequently than in surrounding decades. Since then, its trajectory has been stable but low, with fewer than five babies receiving the name in recent years. The one-in-N rate is not calculable due to low counts, indicating that Melida remains an uncommon choice. Though its origins are debated, the name carries a sweet, honeyed feel, likely tied to its possible Spanish root meaning 'honey.' Families seeking a distinctive yet simple name with Latin flair might find Melida appealing.

Melida is a name of uncertain origin, with several plausible derivations. It may be a Spanish diminutive or variant of Melinda, which itself is a blend of Melanie and Linda. Alternatively, it could be a feminine form of Mel, or directly from the Spanish word 'miel' meaning honey. The name has seen occasional use in the United States since the early 20th century, with a notable peak in the 1970s.