Lynda is a female given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Leathan," which means "broad" or "wide." The name Lynda is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was broad-minded, generous, or had a wide smile.
The name Lynda has been in use since at least the 17th century. It was popularized in Scotland during this time and eventually spread to other parts of Britain and Ireland. In the United States, the name became particularly common during the mid-20th century.
Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Lynda. One famous example is Lynda Carter, an American actress who played Wonder Woman on television in the 1970s. Another notable figure is Lynda Thomas, a British social worker and author who was instrumental in promoting the rights of children with disabilities.
Overall, the name Lynda has a rich history and a unique meaning that makes it stand out among other female names. Its Scottish origins give it a distinct character, while its association with broad-mindedness and generosity adds to its appeal.
Here are some interesting statistics about the name Lynda:
The name Lynda has been quite popular over the years in the United States, with a total of 77,938 births recorded since 1882.
From 1882 to 1908, there were only sporadic births with the name Lynda, ranging from 5 to 12 births per year. However, starting from 1909, we see a significant increase in popularity, with 12 births that year.
The peak of popularity for the name Lynda was during World War II, between 1942 and 1946, when there were over 3,000 births each year. In fact, 1946 had the highest number of Lynda births with an astonishing 5,440 newborn girls named Lynda that year!
However, after the war, the popularity of the name Lynda began to decline steadily. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, there were only around 200-300 births per year.
In recent years, from 2015 onwards, the name Lynda has seen a slight resurgence in popularity, with around 30-40 births each year. This shows that while the name may not be as popular as it once was, it remains a classic choice for parents looking to give their daughter a timeless and distinctive name.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate the enduring appeal of the name Lynda over time, as well as its ability to adapt to changing trends in naming practices.