What does Wilda mean and where does it come from?
Wilda is an English name derived from the Old English 'wilde' meaning 'wild' or 'untamed.' It has given modern usage a strong association with nature and freedom. The name also carries connotations of vitality and liveliness. Though it isn't among the most popular names today, it evokes a sense of a
Cultural significance
Wilda has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #326 in 1926 — currently #1508 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Wilda?
Wilda works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wilda Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Wilda Rose
Floral · soft ending
Wilda Mae
Sweet · timeless
Wilda Claire
French influence · crisp
Wilda Jane
Literary · strong
Wilda Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Wilda right now?
Holding steady — currently #1508 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1508 | 692 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1513 | 672 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1518 | 642 | ▲ up 10300 · +7925% births |
| 2015 | #11818 | 8 | ▼ down 32 · +33% births |
| 1995 | #11786 | 6 | ▼ down 4916 · -50% births |
| 1990 | #6870 | 12 | ▲ up 696 · +50% births |
| 1985 | #7566 | 8 | ▼ down 145 |
| 1980 | #7421 | 8 | ▼ down 3645 · -53% births |
| 1975 | #3776 | 17 | ▼ down 459 · -11% births |
| 1970 | #3317 | 19 | ▼ down 1880 · -68% births |
| 1965 | #1437 | 59 | ▼ down 39 · -5% births |
| 1960 | #1398 | 62 | ▼ down 334 · -31% births |
| 1955 | #1064 | 90 | ▼ down 264 · -24% births |
| 1950 | #800 | 118 | ▼ down 200 · -18% births |
| 1945 | #600 | 144 | — |
The story of Wilda
Wilda has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 12,767 babies have received this name. Once ranked #546 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1508 in 2023. Wilda is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Wilda in 1926:
Wilda by decade
Wilda peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 123 | |
| 1890s | 309 | |
| 1900s | 534 | |
| 1910s | 2,106 | |
| 1920s ★ | 3,642 | |
| 1930s | 2,628 | |
| 1940s | 1,699 | |
| 1950s | 994 | |
| 1960s | 430 | |
| 1970s | 154 | |
| 1980s | 82 | |
| 1990s | 52 | |
| 2000s | 6 | |
| 2010s | 8 | |
What are good nicknames for Wilda?
What names sound and feel like Wilda?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wilda also consider these
Common questions about the name Wilda
What does the name Wilda mean?
Wilda means "English" — 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 Wilda?
Wilda 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 Wilda?
Wilda 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 Wilda?
Wilda is a two-syllable name pronounced W IH1 L D AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Wilda a common or rare name?
Wilda is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.