Wanda is a feminine given name of Polish origin. It comes from the Slavic element "wanda", which means "enchantment" or "charm". The name Wanda has been associated with several historical figures in Poland, most notably Queen Wanda of Poland (also known as Princess Wanda), who was a legendary ruler in the 9th century. She is said to have refused to marry a German prince unless he converted to Christianity and became a protector of her country, which ultimately led to his conversion and the establishment of Christianity in Poland. Despite its historical significance, the name Wanda remains relatively uncommon outside of Poland.
"Wanda saw a significant rise in popularity from the late 19th century onwards, with a steady increase in births from the 1880s to peak in the 1950s. However, it has since declined dramatically, with only 21 births recorded in 2023."