Shielda is a unique and captivating name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname Shield or Shieldhouse, which was originally an occupational name for someone who worked at a shield-making establishment.
The meaning behind the name Shielda is tied to its origins, with "shield" referring to the protective device used in combat. Therefore, Shielda could be interpreted as meaning "protection" or "defense." This association gives the name a strong and powerful connotation.
While Shielda is not a common name today, it has been found in historical records dating back centuries in Scotland. The surname Shield has been recorded since the 13th century, with early bearers including Henry Shields who was listed as living in Dumfriesshire around 1296.
Shielda also shares its roots with other names derived from the Scottish surname Shield, such as Shiel, Shields, and Sheilds. However, it is distinct from these names due to its unique feminine form.
In terms of popularity, Shielda has not ranked among the most common names in recent years. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, there have been no instances where Shielda was given as a name to newborn girls since 2007.
Despite its rarity, Shielda remains an intriguing and distinctive name with a rich history and meaningful origins. Its association with protection and defense gives it a strong and powerful character that may appeal to parents seeking a unique yet significant name for their child.
The name Shielda experienced a brief surge in popularity during the mid-20th century in the United States. In 1943, there were five babies named Shielda born across the country. This number increased to nine births in 1946. Overall, between these two years, there were a total of fourteen children given the name Shielda in the United States. Despite its modest popularity during this period, it is important to note that Shielda remains a rare name today.