Origin and meaning of the name Velda

The origin of the given name Velda is uncertain as it is a relatively modern name and its origins are not clearly documented in historical records. However, it is believed to be derived from Old Norse "fjöldi," meaning "multitude" or "much," or from Old English "feld," meaning "open country" or "pasture." The name gained popularity in the early 20th century and was used as a diminutive of names such as Violet, Velvet, or Velma. It has also been associated with the Nordic mythological figure Freyja, whose name means "Lady" or "Mistress" in Old Norse, due to the similar sound and meaning.

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The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Velda

The name Velda is of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse word "vellr," meaning "meadow" or "field." In Scandinavia, the name was traditionally given to girls born during summer months due to the connection between the name and the growing season. Over time, Velda has also been used in various countries as a short form of names such as Velvet or Celestia, which share similar origins and meanings related to softness and light. The name became popular outside Scandinavia during the 19th and early 20th centuries due to the influence of Norse mythology and Viking culture in literature and media. Today, Velda remains a rare but distinctive choice for parents seeking unique names with ancient roots.

Character traits associated with the name Velda

Velda is often perceived as an independent and self-reliant individual, demonstrating a strong sense of determination and resilience. She tends to be resourceful and inventive, using her creativity to navigate through various challenges effectively. Velda's intelligence is evident in her ability to grasp complex ideas quickly and apply them in practical situations. She possesses a great deal of empathy, making her an understanding and compassionate listener for those around her. Despite her strong personality, Velda maintains a sense of humility, acknowledging the value of teamwork and collaboration when necessary. Overall, she is a versatile individual who can excel in various roles and settings due to her adaptability and commitment to personal growth.

Popularity of the name Velda

Velda is a less common given name for females, predominantly used in certain regions, primarily Scandinavia and the Netherlands. In recent years, the popularity of the name has been relatively low globally, as it ranks outside the top 1000 most popular names in the United States and many other English-speaking countries. However, within its traditional strongholds, Velda can still be found occasionally among the more unique names given to girls. The name's rarity adds a distinctive touch for those who bear it, contributing to its charm and appeal for parents seeking an unconventional choice for their child.

Famous people with the name Velda

Velda is an uncommon given name, yet it has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One such individual is Velda Brooks (1923-2014), an American jazz and blues singer who performed under the stage name Miss Velda. Known for her powerful, emotive voice, she was active in the mid-20th century, recording hits like "Buzz Me" and "I Can't Get Started."

Another significant figure with the name is Velda Livingston (1936-2015), an American artist who gained recognition for her vibrant and abstract paintings. Her work, often characterized by its vivid colors and fluid lines, has been displayed in numerous galleries and museums across the United States.

In addition to these figures, Velda Cheever (1906-1985) was a prominent author known for her mystery novels. She wrote under the pen name Vera Caspary, best recognized for the novel Laura, which was later adapted into a successful film noir movie in 1944. These women have all made significant contributions to their respective fields and are worth noting for their unique talents and accomplishments.

Variations of the name Velda

The name Velda has several variants and spellings across different cultures and languages. Some of these include:

1. Velda - This is the original form of the name, which means "far traveler" or "wanderer" in Old Norse. It's primarily used in English-speaking countries.
2. Vela - A variation of Velda, this name has Latin origins and means "star" or "light."
3. Welda - An alteration of Velda, Welda is a Dutch name that shares the same meaning as Velda but may also mean "protector" or "guardian" in some contexts.
4. Vilde - A Scandinavian variation of Velda, this name has Norwegian and Danish origins and means "wild" or "untamed."
5. Welda Lee - A combination of the names Welda and Lee, it's a unisex name that may be used in English-speaking countries. The second part, Lee, is an English surname that originally meant "meadow" or "clearing in the woods."

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "velda"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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