Maude is a unique and distinctive female given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Old German word "Mahthild", which means "strength in battle". The name was introduced to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066, and it became popular among the nobility during the Middle Ages.
The name Maude has a rich history and has been borne by several notable figures throughout the centuries. One of the most famous Maudes is Queen Maud of Wales, who was also the queen consort of Norway from 1905 to 1938. She was known for her humanitarian work and her support for women's rights.
In literature, Maude Plunkett is a character in Oscar Wilde's play "The Importance of Being Earnest". The name has also been used in popular culture, such as in the television show "Battlestar Galactica", where one of the characters is named Maude Plantagenet.
Today, Maude remains a rare but beautiful name that is often associated with strength, elegance, and refinement. It is a perfect choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Maude saw its peak popularity between the late 19th to early 20th century, with over a thousand births each year from 1880 to 1915. The highest point was reached in 1913 with 693 births. After World War I, the name's popularity declined significantly, dropping below 100 births per year by 1947 and remaining low since then, with fewer than 25 births annually from 2018 onwards. As of 2023, Maude is no longer a popular choice for newborns, with only 32 births recorded.