Belinda is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the name "Belenos," which means "bright, shining." It was originally a masculine Celtic god's name, but it has since become widely used as a female name.
The name Belinda first gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the 18th century. This was largely due to Alexander Pope's heroic poem "The Rape of the Lock," published in 1712, which featured a character named Belinda. The name also appeared in other literary works of the time, such as "Belinda: A Tragedy" by Thomas Southern, further contributing to its spread.
Over time, Belinda has become more commonly used around the world. It is now often associated with beauty and grace, reflecting its meaning of bright or shining. Despite its Latin origins, Belinda is not typically considered a traditional or classic name. Instead, it is seen as somewhat exotic or unusual, adding to its appeal for parents seeking unique baby names.
Today, Belinda continues to be a popular choice among parents who appreciate its elegant sound and meaningful significance. It has been used consistently throughout the years, with its popularity fluctuating slightly depending on regional trends. Overall, though, Belinda remains a beloved and enduring name that carries a touch of timeless charm.
The name Belinda has a rich history and popularity in the United States, as evidenced by the annual birth statistics from 1889 to 2023. The name first appeared in 1889 with five births, and it continued to be used intermittently throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with varying numbers of births each year.
The popularity of Belinda began to rise significantly around the mid-20th century. In 1946, there were 187 births, which more than doubled to 432 in 1948. The name continued its upward trajectory throughout the 1950s and early 1960s, reaching a peak of 3119 births in 1961.
However, after this peak, the popularity of Belinda began to decline. By 1974, there were only 1199 births, and it continued to decrease steadily throughout the late 1970s and 1980s. In the 1990s, Belinda was given to fewer than 300 babies each year.
Despite this decline in popularity, Belinda has remained a distinctive name with a unique history. Since 2004, there have been more than 200 births of Belinda each year, indicating that the name continues to be chosen by parents looking for something different and memorable.
Overall, the statistics show that Belinda has had a varied and interesting history in the United States. While it may not currently be one of the most popular names, its unique spelling and sound make it a distinctive choice that is sure to stand out.