Iselda is a unique and beautiful name with an intriguing history that dates back to the medieval period in Spain. It is derived from the Basque language, where it means "fair-haired." This origin highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Basque people who have inhabited the regions of northern Spain and southern France for centuries.
The name Iselda gained popularity during the Middle Ages when it was used by the nobility in the Spanish kingdom of Navarre. It is believed that this name was often chosen for girls with light-colored hair or a fair complexion, as its meaning suggests. Over time, Iselda has become less common, but it still retains its charm and uniqueness.
In literature, one notable character named Iselda appears in "Amadis de Gaula," an 16th-century Spanish chivalric romance by Garci Rodríguez de Montalbán. Although this work is not as well-known today, it was quite popular during the Renaissance period and contributed to the spread of unusual names like Iselda.
Today, parents looking for a distinctive name with a rich history might consider giving their daughter the name Iselda. Despite its ancient origins, this name remains uncommon, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to honor their Basque heritage or simply offer their child a unique and meaningful name.
The name Iselda has been given to a total of 16 babies in the United States over the past few decades, with no more than six babies being named Iselda in any single year. The most popular years for this name were 1987 and 2001, each with five births. Despite its rarity compared to more popular names, Iselda remains a unique and special choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.