Hildred

What does the baby name Hildred mean? Learn about what Hildred means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Hildred - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Hildred
H-I-L-D-R-E-D, is a 7-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Hildred
HIL-drəd
HIL dred
Meaning of Hildred
War advisor, battle-counsel.
Origin of Hildred
The name 'Hildred' finds its roots in Old English, where it was derived from the elements 'hild' meaning 'battle' and 'ræd' meaning 'counsel'. This combination of words gives the name its powerful meaning of 'battle counselor' or 'counselor in war'. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to medieval England, where it was often given to noble individuals who possessed great wisdom and leadership skills.
English Names
Germanic Names
Old English Names
Saxon Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Hildred
Hildreth
Popularity of Hildred
Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Hildred' has ebbed and flowed. It experienced a notable spike in usage during the 19th century, particularly in England and America. During this time, the name was seen as a symbol of strength and resilience, qualities that were highly valued in a rapidly changing world. However, as the 20th century dawned, the name gradually declined in popularity, giving way to more modern and trendy names.
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Etymology of Hildred

To truly understand the essence of the name 'Hildred', we must explore its etymology. As mentioned earlier, the name is derived from the Old English elements 'hild' and 'ræd'. The element 'hild' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'hildiz', which means 'battle'. Similarly, the element 'ræd' finds its roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'rēdaz', which means 'counsel'. These ancient linguistic connections reveal the name 's deep ties to the concepts of war and wisdom.

Cultural Significance of Hildred

While the name 'Hildred' does not have any specific cultural associations, it is worth noting that names with similar meanings, such as 'Matilda' and 'Brunhilda', have played significant roles in various mythologies and literary works. These names often represent strong and courageous female characters who possess both physical and intellectual prowess. In this way, the name 'Hildred' can be seen as a nod to the powerful women who have shaped our cultural narratives.