“battle maiden” — Associated with strong female figures
Germanic origin · Unisex name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#1229US 2023
971Births / yr
→Stable
80.9kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 10 years in top 1000.27% of births at peak
How to pronounce Hilda
HILD·uh
/ˈhɪld.ə/ · stress on HILD · 2 syllables
“battle maiden”
Associated with strong female figures · Germanic origin
What does Hilda mean and where does it come from?
The name Hilda has German and Scandinavian origins and is derived from the Old German name 'Hildegard,' which means 'battle' or 'warrior.' It has been used since the Middle Ages and is particularly popular in Germany and some Nordic countries. The name is often associated with strong female figures
Cultural significance
Hilda has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of battle maiden.
Holding steady — currently #1229 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1229 · Top 0.91%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1229
971
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1234
951
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1239
921
▲ up 2128 · +1947% births
2020
#3367
45
▼ down 72 · -8% births
2015
#3295
49
▲ up 111 · +4% births
2010
#3406
47
▼ down 1051 · -37% births
2005
#2355
75
▼ down 339 · -9% births
2000
#2016
82
▼ down 781 · -41% births
1995
#1235
138
▼ down 130 · -13% births
1990
#1105
158
▼ down 231 · -14% births
1985
#874
183
▼ down 189 · -28% births
1980
#685
253
▼ down 55 · +2% births
1975
#630
249
▼ down 46 · -17% births
1970
#584
299
▼ down 96 · -21% births
1965
#488
377
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Hilda
1900Rank #101
2,050
#941
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Hilda
Hilda has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #88 in 1899. A total of 80,927 babies have received this name. Once ranked #199 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1229 in 2023. Hilda is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Hilda means "battle maiden" — a name rooted in Germanic 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 Hilda?
Hilda is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hilda?
Hilda originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic 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 Hilda?
Hilda is a two-syllable name pronounced HH IH1 L D AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hilda a common or rare name?
Hilda is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Hilda
For a sister
Hilda & Ada♡
Hilda & Lena♡
Hilda & Otto♡
Hilda & Adelaide♡
For a brother
Hilda & Ada♡
Hilda & Lena♡
Hilda & Otto♡
Hilda & Matilda♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks