Melynda is a unique and captivating feminine given name of Greek origin. Its meaning is derived from the Greek word "melissa," which signifies "bee." The name Melynda is believed to have been created during the Middle Ages as a variant spelling of Melisande, another Greek-derived name that also means "bee."
The name Melynda has a long and rich history, with notable figures throughout history bearing this unique moniker. One such figure is Melisenda (also spelled Melyisinde), who was a Queen consort of Jerusalem from 1131 to 1153. She was married to King Fulk of Anjou and played an active role in governing the Kingdom of Jerusalem during her husband's absence.
Another notable historical figure named Melynda is Saint Melantha, a Christian martyr from the 4th century. Little is known about her life, but she is believed to have been martyred for her faith during the reign of the Roman Emperor Maximus.
Today, the name Melynda continues to be a distinctive and appealing choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughter. Its Greek origins give it an exotic and sophisticated feel, while its association with bees lends it a touch of nature and sweetness. Despite its long history and rich heritage, Melynda remains relatively uncommon, making it a standout choice for those looking to honor tradition while embracing the unique.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Melynda experienced significant popularity and fluctuations over the decades in the United States.
The name first began to appear with some frequency in the mid-20th century, with a total of 6 births recorded in 1943. This number fluctuated slightly over the next few years, ranging from 5 to 11 births per year between 1946 and 1954.
However, starting in 1955, there was a noticeable increase in the popularity of the name Melynda, with 22 births recorded that year. This trend continued into the following years, reaching a peak in 1967 with 80 births recorded. The name remained popular throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, with over 70 births per year on average.
Interestingly, the popularity of the name Melynda began to decline in the mid-1970s, dropping below 50 births per year by 1980. This downward trend continued throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with fewer than 40 births recorded each year on average.
In recent years, the name Melynda has become quite rare in the United States, with only 5 births recorded annually between 2005 and 2021. Despite this decline in popularity, it's clear that the name once held significant appeal for parents in the mid-to-late 20th century.
Overall, these statistics offer a fascinating glimpse into the changing trends of baby naming over time in the United States. While the name Melynda may not be as popular today as it was several decades ago, its historical popularity serves as an interesting reminder of the shifting tastes and preferences of parents throughout recent history.