Find out how popular the first name Wenda has been for the last 9 years (from 1974 to 1982) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Wenda by gender

Based on the last 9 years of data, Wenda is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1982, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Wenda.

The history of the first name Wenda

The name Wenda is believed to have its origins in Old English, tracing back to the Anglo-Saxon era in Britain. It is thought to be derived from the Old English word "windan," meaning "to wind" or "to turn." This could suggest a connection to the winding paths or roads in certain areas, or perhaps a reference to the twisting and turning movements associated with certain professions or activities.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Wenda can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of landowners and property in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name appears as "Wenda" in various entries, indicating its usage at the time.

Wenda was also the name of a 9th-century Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who lived during the reign of King Egbert of Wessex. She is mentioned in several historical chronicles from that period, though details about her life are scarce.

In the 12th century, a nun named Wenda is recorded as being part of the religious community at the Benedictine abbey in Wilton, Wiltshire. Her name appears in the abbey's records, providing evidence of the name's continued use in medieval England.

During the Renaissance period, Wenda Loxley was a notable English poet and writer born in 1542. Her works included a collection of sonnets and a philosophical treatise on the nature of love, which earned her recognition among contemporary literary circles.

Another notable figure bearing the name Wenda was Wenda Parkinson, a British botanist and explorer born in 1845. She was renowned for her expeditions to the Amazon rainforest, where she discovered and cataloged numerous new plant species, contributing significantly to the field of botany.

It is worth noting that while the name Wenda has its roots in Old English, it has been less commonly used in recent times compared to its earlier historical presence. However, its unique and intriguing origins continue to make it a distinctive choice for those seeking a name with a rich cultural heritage.

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

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

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