Holding steady.
Popularity of Thelda since 1902
Babies named Thelda per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 94 |
| 1920s | 196 |
| 1930s | 119 |
| 1940s | 85 |
| 1950s | 22 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Thelda is a rare feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1902, a time when inventive and melodious names were gaining popularity. It reached its highest usage in 1926, with modest but notable presence during the 1920s. After the 1920s, its usage declined sharply, and it has remained very uncommon since, not registering in the top 1,000 names for any recent year. Although the name did not appear in the most recent 2025 data with a measurable rank, it still appears occasionally, reflecting a stable but minimal trajectory. Thelda is likely a variant or spin-off of contemporary names like Thelma, Velma, or Selma, which were fashionable at the time. Its appeal lies in its classic, vintage sound and rarity, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon name with early 20th-century charm.
Thelda is a rare feminine given name that first appeared in the United States around the turn of the 20th century. It may be a variant of Thelma, a name coined by British author Marie Corelli for her 1887 novel 'Thelma', or a feminine derivative of the Old English name Theld. Alternatively, it might be a simple combination of popular sounds from that era.
Sibling names for Thelda
Names that share Thelda's style, for a brother or sister.
