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

Popularity of Malinda by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Malinda is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 74 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Malinda.

The history of the first name Malinda

The name Malinda is thought to have originated from the Sanskrit language, with its roots tracing back to ancient India. It is derived from the combination of the words "malini," meaning "jasmine flower," and "daa," meaning "giver." The name thus translates to "one who bestows jasmine flowers," symbolizing purity, grace, and beauty.

During the Vedic period, which spanned from around 1500 BCE to 500 BCE, the name Malinda was associated with Hindu deities and mythological figures. It was often used to refer to celestial nymphs or apsaras, who were known for their enchanting beauty and divine dance. The name also finds mention in ancient Sanskrit texts, such as the Rigveda and the Mahabharata, further solidifying its origins in Indian culture.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Malinda can be found in the historical accounts of the Mauryan Empire, which ruled over a vast territory in ancient India from around 322 BCE to 185 BCE. Malinda was the name of a princess from the royal family, who was renowned for her exceptional beauty and intelligence.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Malinda. One such individual was Malinda Craven (1844-1888), an American author and poet who gained recognition for her works that explored themes of love, nature, and spirituality. Another prominent figure was Malinda Ann Prichard (1806-1886), an American educator and pioneer in the field of women's education, who established one of the earliest schools for girls in the United States.

In the realm of arts and culture, Malinda Kathleen Reese (1865-1924) was a renowned American opera singer who performed with various prestigious companies, including the Metropolitan Opera. Malinda Anne Foote (1867-1940), on the other hand, was a Canadian painter and illustrator whose works captured the beauty of rural landscapes and everyday life.

Malinda Blalock (1924-2016) was a notable figure in the field of civil rights, known for her activism and efforts to promote equality and justice for African Americans. She played a pivotal role in the desegregation of public schools in her hometown of Little Rock, Arkansas, and worked tirelessly to combat racial discrimination.

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

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

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