Holding steady.
Popularity of Wilda since 1880
Babies named Wilda per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 123 |
| 1890s | 309 |
| 1900s | 534 |
| 1910s | 2,101 |
| 1920s | 3,643 |
| 1930s | 2,619 |
| 1940s | 1,699 |
| 1950s | 993 |
| 1960s | 431 |
| 1970s | 154 |
| 1980s | 82 |
| 1990s | 52 |
| 2000s | 6 |
| 2010s | 8 |
| 2020s | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Wilda is a rare and vintage name that saw its peak popularity in the United States in 1926, ranking among the top 500 names at that time. However, it has since fallen out of common use and does not appear in recent rankings. The name likely originated as a variant of Wilma or a coinage from the English word 'wild', giving it an earthy, spirited quality. Despite its obscurity today, Wilda has a charming, old-fashioned appeal that may attract parents seeking a distinctive name with a vintage feel. Its stable trajectory over the decades suggests it has never experienced a major revival, remaining a quiet choice in American naming history.
Wilda likely emerged in the late 19th century as a feminine given name, possibly a variant of Wilma (a short form of Wilhelmina) or a coinage from the English word 'wild'. Its peak usage in the United States occurred in the 1920s, reflecting a trend for names with a natural or spirited feel. The name has since declined in frequency, remaining rare in contemporary use.
Where Wilda 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: Willie, Willy
Sibling names for Wilda
Names that share Wilda's style, for a brother or sister.
