What does Hulda mean and where does it come from?
Hulda is derived from both Hebrew and Old Norse origins. In Hebrew, it can be associated with kindness, while in Old Norse, it means 'hidden' or 'secret'. The name was popular in Scandinavia during the 19th century and remains in use today. Variations include Huldah and Huld. In Scandinavian folklor
Cultural significance
Hulda has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Sweden-speaking communities, where it reflects values of kind, mild, or tender.
Peak popularity
Reached #172 in 1885 — currently #1269 in the US.
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Related Reading
Sweden-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hulda?
Hulda works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hulda Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hulda Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hulda Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hulda Claire
French influence · crisp
Hulda Jane
Literary · strong
Hulda Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hulda right now?
Holding steady — currently #1269 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1269 | 931 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1274 | 911 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1279 | 881 | ▲ up 9110 · +17520% births |
| 1980 | #10389 | 5 | ▼ down 4579 · -17% births |
| 1965 | #5810 | 6 | ▼ down 1743 · -33% births |
| 1955 | #4067 | 9 | ▼ down 1014 · -25% births |
| 1950 | #3053 | 12 | ▼ down 311 · +9% births |
| 1945 | #2742 | 11 | ▼ down 171 |
| 1940 | #2571 | 11 | ▼ down 909 · -48% births |
| 1935 | #1662 | 21 | ▼ down 388 · -40% births |
| 1930 | #1274 | 35 | ▼ down 397 · -51% births |
| 1925 | #877 | 71 | ▼ down 127 · -24% births |
| 1920 | #750 | 93 | ▼ down 187 · -29% births |
| 1915 | #563 | 131 | ▼ down 102 · +75% births |
| 1910 | #461 | 75 | — |
The story of Hulda
Hulda has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 5,407 total births recorded, Hulda remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #200 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1269 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Hulda in 1885:
Hulda by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 899 | |
| 1890s ★ | 1,374 | |
| 1900s | 903 | |
| 1910s | 1,060 | |
| 1920s | 709 | |
| 1930s | 240 | |
| 1940s | 130 | |
| 1950s | 69 | |
| 1960s | 11 | |
| 1970s | 7 | |
| 1980s | 5 | |
💎With 5,407 total births, Hulda is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Hulda?
What names sound and feel like Hulda?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hulda also consider these
Common questions about the name Hulda
What does the name Hulda mean?
Hulda means "kind, mild, or tender" — a name rooted in Sweden 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 Hulda?
Hulda 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 Hulda?
Hulda originates from Sweden tradition. Sweden names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Hulda a common or rare name?
Hulda is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Hulda?
Hulda naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.