Yolanda is a female given name of Spanish and Italian origin. It means "violet flower" in both languages. The name Yolanda has been popular in Spain for centuries, with its earliest known usage dating back to the Middle Ages.
The name Yolanda gained prominence during the reign of Queen Yoland, also known as Yolande of Hungary, who was a countess of Flanders and ruler of the French kingdom of Naples in the 14th century. The queen's influence helped spread the popularity of her given name throughout Europe.
In Spanish literature, the name Yolanda is associated with the epic poem "El Cid," written by the Spanish poet Juan Ruiz in the late Middle Ages. In the poem, Yolanda is a beautiful and noble lady who is the object of El Cid's affections.
Today, Yolanda remains a popular given name for girls throughout Spain, Latin America, and other parts of the world where Spanish and Italian cultural influences are strong. It has also been adopted by English-speaking countries, with variations such as Yolande and Yolanda gaining popularity in recent years. Despite its long history and widespread use, Yolanda remains a unique and distinctive given name that signifies elegance, grace, and beauty.
Yollanda saw its popularity peak twice within seven years, with five births each time.