Find out how popular the first name Ada has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ada by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Ada is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 100% of people named Ada being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 1,647 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ada.

The history of the first name Ada

The name Ada is a Germanic name with roots dating back to the 8th century. It is derived from the German word "adal" or "athal," meaning "noble." The name was popular among the Teutonic tribes and was later adopted by other cultures and languages.

In ancient times, the name Ada appeared in various forms, such as Adala, Adele, and Adalheidis. It was a common name among the nobility and aristocracy of medieval Europe. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name is found in the Frankish royal family, where Adalheidis was the name of a daughter of Pepin the Short, the father of Charlemagne.

The name Ada gained widespread recognition in the 19th century, thanks to the famous English mathematician and writer Ada Lovelace (1815-1852). She is considered the world's first computer programmer for her work on Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine. Her contributions to computer science and her pioneering spirit have made her a role model for women in STEM fields.

Another notable figure with the name Ada was Ada Isaacs Menken (1835-1868), an American actress, painter, and poet. She was known for her unconventional lifestyle and was one of the first actresses to appear nude on stage.

In literature, the name Ada appears in several works, including Jane Austen's novel "Sense and Sensibility" (1811), where Ada is the name of a character. The name is also featured in Vladimir Nabokov's novel "Ada or Ardor: A Family Chronicle" (1969), where it is the name of the main character.

Other famous Adas throughout history include Ada Comstock (1876-1973), an American educator and the first full-time president of Radcliffe College; Ada Rehan (1857-1916), an American actress known for her performances in Shakespeare's plays; and Ada Blackjack (1898-1983), an Inuit woman who survived for two years on a remote Arctic island after her expedition was abandoned.

Overall, the name Ada has a long and rich history, spanning various cultures and time periods. Its association with nobility, intelligence, and strength has made it a popular choice for parents seeking a name with a powerful and inspiring legacy.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Ada was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Ada, please contact us.

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