Ludwika is a feminine given name of Polish origin. It is the female form of the name Ludwik, which itself is derived from the Germanic name Ludwig. The name Ludwig is composed of two elements: 'hlud' meaning "famous" and 'wig' meaning "war". Therefore, the name Ludwig translates to "famous in battle".
The name Ludwika has a rich history in Poland. It was popular among Polish nobility during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. One notable figure bearing this name is Ludwika Maria Hohenzollern, who was the wife of King Stanisław Leszczyński. She played an important role in Polish politics and culture during the 18th century.
Today, Ludwika remains a beloved name in Poland and among Polish communities around the world. It is often shortened to the familiar forms of Luda or Ludzia. Despite its historical associations with battle, the name Ludwika has a softer, more feminine sound, making it appealing as a modern choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their daughters.
The name Ludwika has seen varied popularity over the past decade in the United States, with a total of 101 babies given this unique name between 2001 and 2011. The peak years for births with the name Ludwika were 2006 and 2007, with 15 births each year. Interestingly, the popularity of the name seemed to dip slightly after these years, with only 8 births in 2008 and a further decrease to 6 births in 2010. However, it is important to note that even with fluctuations in popularity, having your child's name among fewer than ten newborns each year means Ludwika remains an uncommon and distinctive choice.