Find out how popular the first name Lafreda has been for the last 8 years (from 1974 to 1981) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Lafreda by gender

Based on the last 8 years of data, Lafreda is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1981, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Lafreda.

The history of the first name Lafreda

The name Lafreda is a unique and intriguing name with a rich history that can be traced back to the ancient Germanic tribes of Europe. Its origins lie in the Old Germanic words "laf" and "reda," which translate to "remnant" and "counsel," respectively. Together, these words suggest a meaning along the lines of "wise counselor" or "one who provides guidance from the remnants of the past."

This name first gained prominence in the 8th century CE, when it was documented among the nobility of the Frankish kingdoms that dominated present-day France and parts of Germany. During this time, the name was often spelled as "Lafrida" or "Lafrieda," reflecting the linguistic evolution of the Germanic languages.

One of the earliest known historical figures to bear this name was Lafreda of Burgundy, a noblewoman who lived in the late 9th century. She was a prominent figure in the court of King Charles the Bald and played a significant role in the political affairs of the Carolingian Empire.

In the 12th century, the name Lafreda appeared in several medieval manuscripts and religious texts, suggesting its use among the clergy and monastic orders of the time. One notable example is Lafreda von Mainz, a Benedictine abbess who lived in the 1160s and was renowned for her piety and leadership of the Mainz Abbey.

As the name spread across Europe, it underwent various spelling variations, including "Lafrida," "Lafrieda," and "Lafrede." In the 14th century, a Italian noblewoman named Lafreda Visconti was a prominent figure in the court of Milan, known for her patronage of the arts and her influence in the affairs of the Visconti dynasty.

Another significant bearer of this name was Lafreda von Württemberg, a 16th-century German countess who was instrumental in the introduction of the Protestant Reformation to the region of Württemberg. Her unwavering support for the Reformation and her advocacy for religious freedom left a lasting impact on the region's history.

In more recent centuries, the name Lafreda has been less common, but it has still been carried by notable individuals. One such example is Lafreda Beckwith, a 19th-century American author and activist who was a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement and the fight for equal rights.

While the name Lafreda may not be as widely known today as it once was, its rich history and unique origins make it a fascinating and significant name in the annals of Western civilization. From ancient Germanic tribes to medieval nobility and religious leaders, this name has left an indelible mark on the cultural and historical tapestry of Europe and beyond.

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 Lafreda was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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