Gilda is a unique and captivating feminine given name with an interesting history behind it. The name originates from the Italian word "gilda," which translates to "guild" or "brotherhood." It is believed that this name was originally used as a term of endearment for members of a guild or brotherhood, signifying unity and belonging.
In medieval Italy, guilds were associations of artisans or merchants who shared the same profession. These guilds often had their own regulations, ceremonies, and traditions, which created a sense of community among their members. It is possible that Gilda was used as a name within these groups to denote membership and fellowship.
As time passed, Gilda began to be used as an actual given name for girls, likely due to its pleasant sound and association with positive qualities such as unity and camaraderie. However, it remained relatively uncommon compared to other names popular during the same period.
Throughout history, there have been a few notable figures named Gilda. One example is the Italian actress and singer Gilda Mignonette, who was active in the early 20th century and gained fame for her performances in operettas and comedic plays. Another famous bearer of this name is the American jazz vocalist Gilda Miró, known for her expressive and emotional style.
In popular culture, the name Gilda has been featured prominently in several films and literary works. One notable example is the 1946 film noir "Gilda," starring Rita Hayworth as a nightclub performer with a mysterious past. The movie's title character became an iconic figure in cinema history, further popularizing the name Gilda among audiences worldwide.
Today, Gilda continues to be an uncommon but distinctive choice for a girl's name. Its Italian origins and historical associations give it a rich backstory, while its unique sound makes it stand out from other names. Parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their daughter may find that Gilda is an excellent option with deep roots in history and culture.
In conclusion, the name Gilda has an intriguing past rooted in medieval Italian guilds. Over time, it evolved into a feminine given name with its own notable figures and cultural references. Although relatively uncommon, Gilda remains an appealing choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughter. Its historical significance and distinctive sound make it a captivating option that continues to charm those who discover its origins and story.
The name Gilda has been used consistently for newborns in the United States over the past century, with fluctuations in popularity over time.
From the years 1898 to 1945, there was a steady increase in the number of births named Gilda. The highest year during this period was 1946, with 305 births. This trend continued until the mid-1950s, reaching its peak with 265 births in 1951 and 263 births in 1952.
However, starting from the late 1950s, there was a significant decline in the popularity of the name Gilda. Between 1958 and 1974, the number of newborn girls named Gilda decreased steadily, with only 40 births recorded in 1974.
The 1970s and 1980s saw a slight recovery in the usage of the name Gilda. Between 1975 and 1989, there were approximately 25 to 30 births each year on average. However, from the early 1990s onwards, there was another decline in popularity, with fewer than 20 births per year recorded.
In recent years, the name Gilda has become even less common. Between 2006 and 2023, there have been fewer than 10 births named Gilda each year on average, with a total of 9 births in both 2022 and 2023.
Overall, while the name Gilda has experienced periods of popularity and decline over the past century, it remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking for something different. Despite its fluctuations in popularity, Gilda continues to be a timeless name with a rich history behind it.