Yolande is a feminine given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Old Germanic elements "yol" meaning "willow" or "elm tree", and "land" meaning "land". Therefore, Yolande could be interpreted as "land of willows" or "land of elm trees".
The name Yolande is believed to have been first used in France during the Middle Ages. It was popular among French nobility, with several historical figures bearing this name. One notable example is Yolande of Aragon (1384-1442), who played a significant role in the political history of France and became known as "the mother of Joan of Arc".
Over time, Yolande has been used in various forms across different cultures. In some cases, it may appear as Yolanda or Yoland, while in others, it might be associated with similar-sounding names such as Yolanthe, Yolantis, or Yolent.
While Yolande is not one of the most common given names today, it remains a unique and elegant choice for parents looking to give their daughter a name with historical significance and a touch of charm. Its meaning related to nature also makes it an appealing option for those who appreciate the outdoors.
The name Yolande has had varying popularity over the years in the United States. From 1902 to 1989, there were a total of 1620 babies named Yolande.
The name's peak in popularity was between 1925 and 1934, with an average of 27 births per year during this period. The highest number of Yolande births in any single year was 34, which occurred three times: in 1925, 1927, and 1929.
Interestingly, the name's popularity declined significantly after the 1930s. From 1946 to 1989, there were fewer than 10 Yolande births per year on average, with some years having only a single birth.
Despite this decline in popularity, the name Yolande remains a unique and distinctive choice for parents looking for something different.