Ludmilla, a name of Slavic origin, is derived from the Old Slavonic elements "ljudu" meaning "people" and "milja" meaning "dear". This name has been popular in Eastern Europe for centuries and has gained international recognition due to its unique sound and historical significance.
In Russia, Ludmilla was often used among royalty and aristocracy. It is notably known as the name of Saint Ludmilla of Bohemia (c. 921 - 973), a Czech duchess who played a significant role in the Christianization of Bohemia. Her life story has contributed to the enduring popularity of this name.
The name Ludmilla carries a certain elegance and strength, reflecting its historical roots. It is often associated with intelligence, grace, and wisdom due to figures like Saint Ludmilla. Despite its Slavic origins, the name has been adopted by various cultures around the world, contributing to its diverse popularity.
The name Ludmilla experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years, with peaks in the early 20th century and again at its end. The most popular decades were the 1910s and 1920s, with a total of 176 births during these two decades alone. The highest number of births in any single year was 16 in 1922. After a decline in popularity throughout much of the century, there was a resurgence in recent years, with 6 births recorded in both 2002 and 2005. Overall, Ludmilla has been given to 242 newborn girls over the reported time period.