The name Enid is of Welsh origin and has a rich history and significance. It comes from the Welsh name "Enid ferch Tudwal" which translates to "Enid, daughter of Tudwal". The name has been popularized by several literary works, most notably by Sir Thomas Malory in his epic poem "Le Morte d'Arthur".
In Welsh mythology, Enid is known as a brave and loyal woman who accompanied her husband, Geraint, on many adventures. She was also said to be a skilled musician and poet. The legend of Enid and Geraint has been passed down through generations and has inspired numerous retellings in literature and art.
The name Enid has also been associated with several historical figures. One notable example is Enid, Lady of Glamorgan, who was a prominent figure during the Welsh Wars in the 12th century. She played a significant role in defending her lands against English invasions and was known for her intelligence and courage.
Overall, the name Enid carries a strong sense of heritage and history, reflecting its roots in ancient Wales. It is often associated with bravery, loyalty, and creativity, thanks to the legendary figures who have borne this name throughout time.
The name Enid has had a fascinating journey in popularity over the past century and a half in the United States. Between 1885 and 2023, there were a total of 9,174 babies named Enid born in the U.S.
In the late 19th century, the name Enid was quite uncommon. The first significant spike in popularity occurred between 1892 and 1896, with an average of around 25 births per year during this period. This trend continued into the early 20th century, with over 30 births per year on average from 1907 to 1924.
The name Enid reached its peak popularity between 1916 and 1920, with a remarkable 261 births in 1920. This was the highest number of Enids born in a single year in the U.S. However, this peak was short-lived, as the popularity of the name began to decline rapidly after that.
From 1935 onwards, the name Enid became increasingly rare, with fewer than 100 births per year on average. This trend continued until the late 1970s and early 1980s when there were consistently around 25-40 births per year. Since then, the popularity of the name Enid has fluctuated but generally remained quite low.
In recent years, there have been some signs of a resurgence in the popularity of the name Enid. For instance, in 2017 and 2019, there were 29 births each year, which is higher than any other year since 1985. This suggests that Enid may be experiencing a small revival among parents looking for unique and vintage-inspired baby names.
Overall, while the name Enid has had its ups and downs in popularity over the years, it remains a distinctive and enduring choice for parents who want to give their child a name with a rich history.