Ingrida is a unique and distinctive given name of Lithuanian origin. It is derived from the Lithuanian word "ingrima," which means "pearl." Therefore, Ingrida signifies purity, beauty, and rarity, much like the precious gemstone itself.
The name Ingrida has a rich history in Lithuanian culture and literature. It was popularized by the famous Lithuanian poet, Jonas Mačiulis, known by his pen name Jonas Mažeika. He used the name Ingrida for one of the main characters in his epic poem "Jura Naktis" (Night's Jury), written between 1895 and 1901. This poem is considered a masterpiece of Lithuanian literature and has had a significant influence on Lithuanian culture and identity.
Ingrida was also used as a female name in the historical novel trilogy "Pilėnai" by Vincas Mykolaitis-Putinas, published between 1935 and 1940. The protagonist's mother in these novels is named Ingrida, further popularizing this name among Lithuanians.
Today, Ingrida remains a beloved and cherished name among Lithuanian families, carrying with it a deep sense of cultural heritage and national pride. It is also used by other Baltic peoples and has been adopted by some non-Baltic speakers who appreciate its unique sound and meaning. Despite its origins, Ingrida is not restricted to any specific gender or cultural background, as its timeless beauty and significance can be appreciated by people from all walks of life.
"According to U.S. birth records, the name Ingrida experienced two distinct peaks in popularity during the late 1950s. Specifically, there were five instances of the name being given to newborn girls in both 1957 and 1958. This resulted in a total of ten babies named Ingrida born in the United States during these two years."