Malinda is a unique and captivating female given name with an interesting history and meaning. Originating from the Welsh language, Malinda is derived from the name "Melindwr", which translates to "musician". This name has a rich cultural heritage, as it was often given to girls who displayed exceptional musical talent or were part of a family of musicians.
The name Malinda gained popularity during the Victorian era in England and Wales. During this time, there was a growing appreciation for Welsh culture and language, which contributed to the increased use of Welsh names like Malinda. Despite its Welsh origins, the name has also been adopted by other cultures throughout history, making it truly international.
One notable figure with the name Malinda is Malinda Maynor Lowery, an American historian and professor who specializes in Native American history. Her work has significantly contributed to the understanding of the Lumbee people's experience in the United States, showcasing how individuals named Malinda have made their mark throughout history.
In literature, Malinda has been used as a character name in works such as "Malinda and Her Sisters" by Ruth M. Arthur. This short story explores themes of family dynamics and sibling rivalry through the lens of the protagonist, Malinda.
Overall, the name Malinda carries a unique charm that is rooted in its musical origins and rich historical context. Its international adoption and notable bearers throughout history further enhance its appeal as a distinctive and meaningful choice for parents looking to give their daughter a name with depth and character.
The name Malinda has been given to a total of 21,318 babies over the past century and a half in the United States. Its popularity peaked in the mid-20th century, with the highest number of births recorded in 1958 at 366 newborns. This was followed by another peak in 1957 with 328 births.
From the late 1940s to the early 1960s, Malinda was quite popular, with an average of around 300 babies named Malinda each year during this period. However, its popularity started to decline in the late 1960s and continued to do so throughout the following decades.
By the late 20th century, the name Malinda had fallen out of fashion, with fewer than 100 babies receiving it each year between 1980 and 2000. In recent years, its popularity has remained relatively low but stable, with around 50-70 births recorded annually since 2013.
Overall, while Malinda may not be as popular today as it once was, its long history of use in the United States indicates that it remains a recognizable and enduring name choice for parents. Its unique sound and spelling make it distinctive without being too unusual, which may contribute to its continued appeal among parents seeking a memorable but not overly trendy name for their children.