Odette is a feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the Germanic elements "aud," meaning "noble" or "wealthy," and "hild," which means "battle." Thus, Odette's literal meaning is "noble battle."
The name Odette first became popular during the Middle Ages in France. It was often used among the nobility and was associated with elegance and refinement. Over time, Odette has become a classic French name that continues to be beloved by many.
One notable figure who bore this name was Odette du Puits, a member of the French Resistance during World War II. She played a crucial role in sabotaging German operations by providing valuable intelligence and sheltering Allied soldiers. Her bravery and patriotism have made her a national heroine in France.
Today, Odette remains a popular choice among parents seeking a distinctive yet timeless name for their daughters. Its meaning of "noble battle" can inspire young girls to strive for strength, courage, and elegance throughout their lives.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Odette has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States.
From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, the number of births with the name Odette fluctuated between 5 and 38 per year. The highest numbers were recorded during World War I, with peaks of 31 births in 1915, 37 births in 1921, and 41 births in 1922.
After the war, the popularity of the name Odette began to decline, reaching a low point of only 6 births in 1939. However, starting from the late 1950s, there was a renewed interest in this name, with more than 20 births per year on average.
In recent years, Odette has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity. In 2020 and 2021 alone, there were 145 and 150 births respectively, marking significant increases compared to previous decades. This upward trend continued into 2022 with 180 births and 2023 with 181 births.
Overall, the total number of births with the name Odette in the United States from 1894 to 2023 is 3739. These statistics demonstrate that while Odette may have fallen out of fashion at times, it has consistently remained a popular choice among parents throughout American history.