Alvilda is a rare and unique given name of Scandinavian origin, specifically from Norway. It is derived from the Old Norse elements "álfr" meaning "elf" or "fairy," and "bein" which translates to "battle." Thus, Alvilda can be interpreted as "elf battle" or "fairy warrior."
The name Alvilda is not particularly popular today, but it has a rich history in Scandinavia. In Norse mythology, elves are often depicted as supernatural beings with magical powers, sometimes benevolent and other times malevolent. It's possible that the name Alvilda was given to girls believed to possess special qualities or gifts.
There is no record of any famous historical figures named Alvilda, but this does not diminish the uniqueness and intrigue of the name. Today, it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
In terms of its popularity, Alvilda is virtually absent from modern naming trends. According to data from Norway, only a handful of girls have been named Alvilda in recent years. This scarcity could make the name an attractive option for those who wish to give their child a truly distinctive and memorable moniker.
Overall, Alvilda is a unique and captivating given name with deep roots in Norse mythology and Scandinavian history. Its rare usage today only adds to its allure as a compelling choice for parents looking for something different and meaningful.
The name Alvilda experienced a brief period of popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, with a total of 123 babies given this name between 1912 and 1927.
The peak years for the name Alvilda were 1916 and 1917, with 12 births each year. This was followed by another peak in 1922, with 10 births that year. The years with the highest number of Alvilda births were also periods of relatively high overall birth rates in the United States.
Interestingly, the name Alvilda appears to have been more popular among parents during wartime. Four out of the nine years with the most Alvilda births (1914-1918) coincide with the period of American involvement in World War I.
Despite its early 20th-century popularity, the name Alvilda is now quite rare. It has not appeared in the Social Security Administration's list of top baby names since the 1930s. Today, it is considered an uncommon and vintage name, perhaps appealing to parents looking for a unique and distinctive name for their child.
In conclusion, while the name Alvilda may no longer be popular today, its early 20th-century popularity reflects broader trends in naming practices during that time period. Its peaks in popularity coincided with periods of high overall birth rates and wartime, suggesting that cultural and societal events may have played a role in its popularity.