Maude is a unique and beautiful feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the Germanic name Mahalt, which is composed of two elements: "mað" meaning "strength" or "might," and "-hild" meaning "battle." Therefore, Maude's significance can be interpreted as "strong in battle."
The name Maude has a rich history dating back to medieval times. It was brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066 and became popular among the nobility. Some notable figures bearing this name include:
* Maud of Brittany (1124-1151), who married Geoffrey V, Duke of Anjou, and was the mother of Henry II of England.
* Matilda or Maude (1102-1167), also known as Empress Maud, who was the daughter of Henry I of England and a claimant to the English throne after her father's death.
In literature, Maude has been used in several works. It is the name of one of the main characters in Herman Melville's novel "Pierre: or The Ambiguities." Additionally, it appears as a minor character in Thomas Hardy's poem "The Convergence of the Twain."
Today, Maude remains a rare and distinctive name, perfect for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful choice for their daughter. It carries with it a rich historical legacy and a strong, empowering meaning.
The name Maude has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 133 births recorded between 1881 and 1929. The name's highest peaks in popularity occurred during specific periods: there were 13 births in 1894, which was the peak year for this particular name during this timeframe.
Interestingly, the name Maude maintained a consistent level of popularity throughout much of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From 1881 to 1895, there were six or more births each year, with a brief dip to five births in 1892.
However, after 1895, the number of Maude births fluctuated more significantly, ranging from five to eight births per year. This trend continued until 1920, after which the name's popularity seems to have waned, with only five births each in 1920 and 1929.
Despite these fluctuations, it is clear that Maude was a name that held some degree of appeal for parents during this period. Its consistent presence over several decades suggests that there may have been a enduring affection for the name within certain communities or families across the United States.