US Popularity Rank: 21514

Origin: Irish

Meaning: Shining light; Torch; Sun ray; Champion; From the alder trees

Nelda is a girl’s name with multiple possible meanings and origins. It may derive from the French name Eleanor of unknown meaning, or the Greek name Helen meaning “torch,” “shining light,” or “sun ray.” Some believe it originated as a feminine form of the Irish name Niall, anglicized as Neil, which is thought to mean “champion.” Alternatively, it may be an Old English name meaning “from the alder trees.” Whichever meaning you prefer, Nelda is a lovely, less common alternative to the charmingly vintage Nell, which has come back in fashion recently.