Eleda is a unique and distinctive given name of Greek origin. The name is derived from the Greek goddess Hecate, who was associated with crossroads, entrances, and passages between the worlds of the living and the dead. In Greek mythology, Hecate was known as the goddess of witchcraft, magic, and ghosts.
The name Eleda is believed to have been used in ancient Greece as a variant spelling of Hecate. However, over time, it has evolved into a distinct name in its own right, with its own history and meanings.
One of the most notable figures associated with the name Eleda was the Byzantine Empress Eledia (also spelled Eledis or Eledisias), who reigned during the 10th century. She was the wife of Emperor Romanos I Lecapenus and is known for her political influence and involvement in religious affairs.
The name Eleda has also been used in other cultures and languages throughout history. In some cases, it may have been adopted or adapted from Greek sources, while in others, it may have evolved independently.
Today, the name Eleda continues to be a rare but beautiful choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughter. Its association with the powerful goddess Hecate gives it a strong and mystical aura, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate ancient mythology and symbolism.
Eleda is a relatively uncommon name in the United States, with only a total of 31 babies being given this name over several decades. The name first appeared in the Social Security Administration's (SSA) baby name database in 1916, with five newborns sharing this unique moniker that year.
In the following years, Eleda remained relatively rare, with five births each recorded for the years 1920 and 1928. It then disappears from the SSA's records until re-emerging in 1946 and 1951 with another five births each year.
After a gap of two decades, Eleda made its latest appearance in the United States in 1973, with six newborns bearing this distinctive name. This slight increase could suggest that the name was experiencing a minor resurgence during this period.
Overall, while Eleda is not one of the most popular names in the U.S., it has maintained a steady, if limited, presence throughout much of the 20th century. Parents who choose this name for their child may be drawn to its uniqueness and historic precedent.