Griselda
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Griselda
Griselda, which has 8 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of German origin.
Meaning of Griselda
Gray
Griselda is a Germanic name derived from the words “gris” (grey) and “hild” (battle). It is often translated to mean “grey battle maid” and is associated with strength and resilience.
| Meaning | Gray |
| Origin | German |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #1,000 in 1996 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | 80s name |
Background & History of The Name Griselda
The name Griselda is derived from the Germanic elements "gris" meaning "grey" or "old" and "hild" meaning "battle." It has various origins and is used in different cultures, making it a name with a rich history and meaning. In Germanic mythology, Griselda is associated with wisdom and strength, reflecting the significance behind the name. It gained further popularity when the name was featured in Giovanni Boccaccio's "Decameron," a collection of novellas written in the 14th century. In this collection, Griselda is portrayed as a patient and virtuous woman who endures numerous trials and tests of faith. This portrayal has made the name Griselda synonymous with patience and perseverance.
Griselda has also been used in literary works beyond Boccaccio's "Decameron." The name appears in Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Clerk's Tale" and in various operas and plays, further contributing to its familiarity. In recent times, Griselda has gained attention as a character name in films, television shows, and novels. Its usage in popular culture has helped to revive the name and bring it into modern consciousness.
On a global scale, the popularity of Griselda varies among countries. It is more commonly found in European and Latin American cultures. In Spain, Griselda is a known variant of the name Griselda, incorporating the Spanish pronunciation and spelling. Additionally, there have been notable figures with the name Griselda, adding to its historical importance. For instance, Griselda Blanco, also known as the "Cocaine Godmother," was a famous Colombian drug lord in the 1970s and 1980s.
Overall, the name Griselda carries a sense of depth and character due to its origins in mythology and its representation in influential literary works. Despite its varying popularity in different regions, Griselda remains a name that embodies strength, wisdom, patience, and perseverance.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Griselda over the years.
Similar German Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Griselda.
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