What does Emelda mean and where does it come from?
Emelda has roots in some Hispanic countries and can sometimes be considered a variation of the name 'Hildegarde' which is of Germanic origin. It can also be a derivative used in Spain and Italian-speaking regions. The name conveys the idea of someone who fights or contends, revealing a sense of stre
Cultural significance
Emelda has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of contender.
Peak popularity
Reached #1218 in 1909 — currently #16255 in the US.
Falling — down 1460 spots — currently #16255 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2015#16255 · Top 12%
1925
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
2015
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2015
#14559
6
▼ down 1460 · +20% births
1990
#13099
5
▼ down 4673 · -29% births
1985
#8426
7
▼ down 2039 · -30% births
1980
#6387
10
▼ down 1750 · -23% births
1975
#4637
13
▼ down 1158 · -28% births
1970
#3479
18
▼ down 47 · +29% births
1965
#3432
14
▲ up 1450 · +75% births
1960
#4882
8
▼ down 2635 · -67% births
1955
#2247
24
▼ down 219 · +4% births
1950
#2028
23
▲ up 787 · +109% births
1945
#2815
11
▼ down 1100 · -50% births
1940
#1715
22
▼ down 177 · -8% births
1935
#1538
24
▲ up 152 · +4% births
1930
#1690
23
▲ up 41 · -8% births
1925
#1731
25
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Emelda
1935Rank #1538
28
#4313
↘Falling
1910 - 201518 years
The story of Emelda
Emelda entered American naming records in 1907 and has been in use for over 117 years. With 1,396 total births recorded, Emelda remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1768 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14559 in 2015.
Emelda means "Contender" — a name rooted in Italy tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Emelda?
Emelda is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Emelda?
Emelda originates from Italy tradition. Italy names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Emelda?
Emelda is a three-syllable name pronounced EH0 M EH1 L D AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Emelda?
Emelda pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Italy heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Emelda
For a sister
Emelda & Lorenzo♡
Emelda & Raphael♡
Emelda & Rosella♡
Emelda & Nervia♡
For a brother
Emelda & Lorenzo♡
Emelda & Raphael♡
Emelda & Verdo♡
Emelda & Costanzo♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks
Worldwide ranking · 2015
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#16255
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
Parents who viewed Emelda also looked at…
Based on what other parents saved alongside Emelda