Holding steady.
Popularity of Velda since 1895
Babies named Velda per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1920, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Velda's real moment was 1914.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 40 |
| 1900s | 242 |
| 1910s | 1,129 |
| 1920s | 1,678 |
| 1930s | 1,439 |
| 1940s | 882 |
| 1950s | 1,260 |
| 1960s | 582 |
| 1970s | 185 |
| 1980s | 95 |
| 1990s | 10 |
| 2000s | 7 |
| 2010s | 5 |
| 2020s | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Velda is a name that reached its highest use in the early 20th century, peaking in 1914. Though it has not charted in the U.S. top 1,000 since mid-century, it has maintained a stable, if minimal, presence through the decades. Records show first usage in 1895. Its Germanic roots connect it to names like Walda, but its exact derivation remains open to interpretation. Velda occupies a quiet niche, appealing to those drawn to vintage, uncommon names.
Velda likely originates as a feminine short form of names beginning with the Germanic element wald 'rule', such as Walda or Waldeburg. It emerged in English-speaking countries in the late 19th century, possibly also influenced by similar-sounding names or as a modern coinage. The name saw modest use in the early 1900s but has since declined.
Where Velda 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Vel, Velly
Sibling names for Velda
Names that share Velda's style, for a brother or sister.
