The name Zelda has its roots in the Germanic languages, derived from the Old German words "Zell" meaning "home" or "shelter" and "hilt" meaning "battle" or "fight". It was initially a surname, but over time transitioned into a given name.

In the medieval period, the name Zelda emerged as a feminine form of the Germanic name Zeltan, which was borne by several minor nobility in regions like modern-day Germany and the Netherlands. One of the earliest recorded instances is from a 12th-century chronicle mentioning a noblewoman named Zelda von Bamberg.

While not a common biblical name, some scholars suggest a possible connection to the Hebrew name Seldah, mentioned in the Book of Ezra as a town near Jerusalem. However, this proposed link is tenuous and not widely accepted.

Historically, the name Zelda gained prominence in the 19th century when it was adopted by several writers and artists. Among the notable figures was Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald (1900-1948), the wife of the famous American author F. Scott Fitzgerald. Her independent spirit and unconventional lifestyle made her a cultural icon of the Jazz Age.

Another famous Zelda was Zelda Rubinstein (1933-2010), an American actress best known for her role as Tangina in the Poltergeist film series. Despite her diminutive stature, she had a successful career spanning several decades.

In the world of literature, Zelda Popkin (1898-1983) was a Russian-American writer and translator who helped introduce the works of Boris Pasternak and Anna Akhmatova to English-speaking audiences.

Zelda Kaplan (1923-2012) was an American activist and liberal politician who served as the first female president of New York City's Liberal Party and advocated for women's rights, civil rights, and peace movements.

Zelda Wynn Valdes (1905-2001) was a celebrated African-American fashion designer and costumer, known for designing outfits for prominent figures like Josephine Baker and Eartha Kitt in the 1940s and 1950s.

While not as common as some other names, Zelda has maintained a consistent presence throughout history, particularly in the arts and literature, often associated with independent, unconventional, and creative individuals.