Holding steady.
Popularity of Velna since 1900
Babies named Velna per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1915, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Velna's real moment was 1905.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 46 |
| 1910s | 185 |
| 1920s | 172 |
| 1930s | 109 |
| 1940s | 28 |
| 1950s | 18 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Velna is a rare American name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1900 and reached its peak popularity in 1905, the year it was most frequently given to newborn girls. Since then, its usage has been sporadic and low, with no recent resurgence. The name likely emerged as a variant of Velma, which was more common during the same era. Its trajectory has been stable but minimal, and it has not been recorded in the top 1000 names in any recent decade. The lack of top states suggests scattered use across the country. For parents seeking an obscure vintage name with a soft sound, Velna offers a distinctive choice, though its etymology remains unclear.
The name Velna appears to be an American coinage from the early 20th century, likely derived from Velma, itself a variant of Selma or Wilma. It may also be a feminine form of the surname Velner or a shortening of Velvina, a rare elaboration. Records show sparse but consistent use in the United States, peaking in the early 1900s.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Velma
Sibling names for Velna
Names that share Velna's style, for a brother or sister.
