What does Mildred mean and where does it come from?
The name Mildred is of Old English origin, derived from the elements 'milde' meaning 'mild' and 'þryð' meaning 'strength'. The name was borne by St. Mildred, a 7th-century abbess of Minster in Kent, England. It gained popularity in the 19th century and was common in early 20th-century America. The f
Cultural significance
Mildred has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gentle strength.
Peak popularity
Reached #6 in 1912 — currently #1973 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Mildred?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Mildred?
Mildred works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Mildred Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Mildred Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Mildred Claire
One syllable · timeless choice
Mildred Zoey
One syllable · vintage charm
Mildred Jade
One syllable · vintage charm
Mildred Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Mildred right now?
Rising fast — up 120 spots — currently #1973 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1973 | 98 | ▲ up 120 · +7% births |
| 2024 | #2093 | 92 | ▼ down 1578 · -95% births |
| 2023 | #515 | 1,685 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #520 | 1,665 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #525 | 1,635 | ▲ up 1440 · +1621% births |
| 2020 | #1965 | 95 | ▲ up 199 · +9% births |
| 2015 | #2164 | 87 | ▲ up 474 · +28% births |
| 2010 | #2638 | 68 | ▼ down 233 · -7% births |
| 2005 | #2405 | 73 | ▼ down 371 · -10% births |
| 2000 | #2034 | 81 | ▼ down 304 · -4% births |
| 1995 | #1730 | 84 | ▼ down 291 · -23% births |
| 1990 | #1439 | 109 | ▼ down 170 · +3% births |
| 1985 | #1269 | 106 | ▼ down 329 · -33% births |
| 1980 | #940 | 159 | ▼ down 326 · -38% births |
| 1975 | #614 | 256 | — |
The story of Mildred
Mildred has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #6 in 1912, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. More than 452,464 babies have been named Mildred since 1880. Once ranked #121 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #515 in 2023. Mildred is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Mildred in 1912:
Mildred by decade
Mildred peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 2,924 | |
| 1890s | 13,839 | |
| 1900s | 36,325 | |
| 1910s | 124,349 | |
| 1920s ★ | 147,620 | |
| 1930s | 62,085 | |
| 1940s | 33,206 | |
| 1950s | 17,621 | |
| 1960s | 7,703 | |
| 1970s | 2,865 | |
| 1980s | 1,376 | |
| 1990s | 873 | |
| 2000s | 806 | |
| 2010s | 777 | |
| 2020s | 285 | |
What are good nicknames for Mildred?
What names sound and feel like Mildred?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mildred also consider these
How is Mildred written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Mildred
What does the name Mildred mean?
Mildred means "gentle strength" — a name rooted in English 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 Mildred?
Mildred is currently ranked #515 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 Mildred?
Mildred originates from English tradition. English 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 Mildred?
Mildred is a two-syllable name pronounced MILDR-id. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Mildred more of a girl or boy name?
Mildred is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.