Hildur is a female given name of Norse origin that has been in use throughout Scandinavia for centuries. The name comes from the Old Norse word "hildr," which means battle or combat. It is often associated with the Valkyries, the mythical female figures who chose the slain on the battlefield and led them to Valhalla, the hall of the fallen.
The name Hildur was particularly popular in Iceland during the Viking Age and can be found among many historical figures from that era. One notable example is Hildur Hrólfsdóttir, a 10th-century Norwegian princess who played a significant role in the battle against King Harald Fairhair's unification of Norway.
In modern times, Hildur continues to be a popular name in Scandinavia, particularly in Iceland and Sweden. It has also gained popularity in other countries where people are interested in Norse culture or mythology. The name is often shortened to "Hildy" as a nickname.
Overall, the name Hildur carries a strong connection to Norse history and mythology, making it an appealing choice for parents who appreciate Scandinavian culture or have an interest in Viking history.
The name Hildur has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 718 births recorded between 1885 and 1933.
Between 1885 and 1908, there was a noticeable fluctuation in the number of newborn girls named Hildur each year. The highest peak during this period occurred in 1895 with 30 births, while the lowest was recorded in 1896 with only 16 births.
From 1909 to 1927, there was a steady increase in the popularity of the name Hildur, reaching its zenith in 1915 and 1916 with 32 births each year. After this peak, the popularity of the name began to decline gradually.
By the end of the period studied (1928-1933), there were only a few births recorded for girls named Hildur each year, with the lowest point being six births in both 1927 and 1933. This trend indicates that the name Hildur fell out of favor as time progressed.
Despite the decrease in popularity over time, it's fascinating to observe the historical journey of this unique name across several decades in the United States.