MallowbyNames

Welda

WEL-də · Of uncertain origin; possibly a variant of Wanda or a feminine form of Waldo.

Peak popularity
1942
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Welda since 1915

Babies named Welda per year in U.S. Social Security records.

5914192019602000Most births 1942Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1910s15
1920s31
1930s37
1940s28
1950s7
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Welda is an exceedingly rare American first name, primarily recorded for girls. Its first recorded use was in 1915, and its peak popularity occurred in 1942, during the mid-20th century. The name has never appeared in the national top 1000 rankings, reflecting its status as a highly uncommon choice. The trajectory of the name is stable, with very few annual occurrences. While its precise etymology is uncertain, Welda is likely a modern coinage or a variant of names like Wanda. It has not been associated with any famous bearers and remains a distinctive option for parents seeking a truly unusual name.

Welda is a rare name of uncertain origin. It may have emerged as a variant of Wanda, a name of Slavic origin meaning 'wanderer,' or as a feminine form of Waldo, from Germanic elements meaning 'rule.' Alternatively, it could be a 20th-century coinage combining elements from popular names. Its use in the United States has been minimal, with sporadic recordings since 1915.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Wel

Sibling names for Welda

Names that share Welda's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

W is for Welda, our favorite little girl.

W is for Welda…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Welda's letter becomes Welda's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Welda's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Welda mean?
The meaning of Welda is uncertain. It may be a variant of Wanda or Waldo, but its exact origin is not well documented.
Is Welda a common name today?
Welda is extremely rare. It peaked in 1942 but has not ranked in the top 1000 for many years.
Is Welda a boy or girl name?
Welda is typically used for girls.