Candida is a rare and unique female given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "candidus," which means "pure" or "white." The name Candida was traditionally given to girls born with fair complexions or light hair, as it was believed that they embodied purity and innocence.
The name Candida has a rich history in literature and art. In the Middle Ages, it was used as the name of a female saint in several hagiographies. Saint Candida is said to have been a young girl who lived a life of piety and devotion to God. She became known for her miracles and was eventually canonized by the Catholic Church.
In more recent times, the name Candida has been popularized by various figures in literature and film. For instance, it was the name of the protagonist in "Candida," a play written by British playwright George Bernard Shaw. The character is known for her intelligence, wit, and strong will, which contributed to the rise in popularity of the name Candida around the time of the play's premier.
Overall, while Candida may not be as commonly used today, it remains a unique and beautiful name with a rich history and meaningful significance. It embodies purity, innocence, and strength, making it a fitting choice for parents looking for something different and special for their daughter.
The name Candida experienced a significant increase in popularity from the late 1960s to the mid-1970s, peaking with 222 births in 1971. However, it has since declined dramatically, with only 6 births recorded in 2012 and 5 births each in 2015 and 2017. Overall, there have been a total of 3580 births for the name Candida since 1900.