Etheldra is an uncommon and unique female given name of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old English elements æðel, which means "noble" or " Mobility", and þrǣd, meaning "council". Therefore, the name Etheldra can be translated to mean "Noble council".
The name Etheldra has a rich history that dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period. It is believed to have been brought to England by the Saxons, who settled in Britain around the 5th century AD. During this time, many Anglo-Saxon names were passed down through generations and often reflected the values and ideals of the society.
One notable figure with the name Etheldra was Æthelthryth, also known as Queen Æthelthryth or Saint Æthelthryth, who lived in the 7th century. She was a queen consort of Ecgfrith of Northumbria and later became a nun and eventually canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.
Today, Etheldra is not a common name but it is still used occasionally, often chosen for its unique sound and historical significance. It is considered to be a strong, elegant, and distinctive name that carries with it a rich cultural heritage.
"Etheldra is a unique and distinctive name, with an interesting history of usage in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, there was only one year where the name Etheldra was given to five newborn girls - that year was 1948. This makes the name quite rare, as it has not been a popular choice for parents in recent years."