Vanda is of Czech origin and means "famous". It has been used throughout Central Europe, including in Czechoslovakia, Poland, Hungary, and Romania. In some countries, Vanda may be considered more of a vintage or traditional name due to its popularity during the early to mid-20th century. The name has also gained international recognition through its association with the Dutch painter Vanda Hazelhof and the Czech-American actress Vanda Ferguson. Variations of Vanda include Vandana, which is popular in India, and Wanda, which has been used throughout Europe and North America.
Over the course of 117 years, from 1893 to 2002, the name Vanda saw a total of 1683 births. The peak popularity occurred during the mid-1940s and early 1950s, with yearly totals reaching as high as 45 in 1960. However, after the 1970s, the name's popularity significantly declined, with fewer than 20 births per year recorded from 1983 onwards. The lowest points were seen between 1983 and 1990, as well as in 1992, 1995, and 1999, with only single-digit birth totals during those years.