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Name meaning & originZelda

/ZEL-dah/

GermanicGirl
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Zelda is a Germanic girl's name pronounced /ZEL-dah/. A bold name meaning gray fighting maid, symbolizing a brave and playful warrior spirit.

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Meaning of Zelda

A bold name meaning gray fighting maid, symbolizing a brave and playful warrior spirit.

Zelda originated as a short form of the Germanic name Griselda, which combines the elements 'gris' (gray) and 'hild' (battle). Historically, it has also been used as a feminine nickname for the Yiddish name Selig, meaning happy or blessed.

Origin
Germanic
Pronunciation
/ZEL-dah/

Cultural background

While once considered a vintage grandmother name, Zelda regained global prominence through 20th-century literature and 21st-century video game culture. It is currently most popular in the United States and parts of Western Europe.

Variations & nicknames

  • Griselda
  • Selda
  • Zeldie
  • Zella
  • Zeldy

Famous people named Zelda

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Zelda Fitzgerald

    American novelist, socialite, and wife of F. Scott Fitzgerald.

    Literature · 1920s-1940s

  • Princess Zelda

    The titular princess in Nintendo's long-running video game franchise.

    Video Games · 1986-present

  • Zelda Williams

    American actress, director, and daughter of Robin Williams.

    Film · 2000s-present

  • Zelda Harris

    American actress known for her role in the film Crooklyn.

    Film · 1990s-present

  • Zelda Rubinstein

    American actress best known for her role in the Poltergeist film series.

    Film · 1980s-2010

  • Zelda Sears

    American entertainer, screenwriter, and novelist.

    Film and Theater · 1890s-1930s

Frequently asked about Zelda

What does Zelda mean?
Zelda is a Germanic name meaning 'gray fighting maid' or 'dark battle'.
How do you pronounce Zelda?
It is pronounced ZEL-dah, with a soft 'e' and a hard 'z'.
Is Zelda a boy or girl name?
Zelda is traditionally a feminine name.
Is Zelda a rare name?
Zelda was very rare for several decades but has seen a steady increase in usage since the early 2010s.

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