Linda

#51 in Idaho

Meaning of Linda

Linda is a vintage gem with two intertwining roots: in Spanish and Portuguese it simply means “pretty” or “lovely,” while in Germanic languages it began as a short form of names ending in –linde, a word for the gentle lime (linden) tree and by extension “soft” or “tender.” Introduced to English speakers in the 19th century, Linda rocketed up the U.S. popularity charts after a 1946 hit song called “Linda,” holding a Top-10 spot throughout the 1950s and early ’60s before gradually settling into its current quiet revival. The name still feels familiar thanks to figures such as singer Linda Ronstadt, activist Linda Sarsour, and sitcom mom Linda Belcher, giving it an approachable, upbeat image. With its straightforward two-syllable rhythm (LIN-də) and its sunny meaning of beauty and kindness, Linda offers parents a sweet, internationally recognized choice that bridges classic mid-century charm and modern simplicity.

Pronunciation

English

  • Pronunced as LIN-duh (/ˈlɪn.də/)

U.S. Popularity Chart

States Popularity Chart

Notable People Named Linda

Linda Maria Ronstadt is an American singer celebrated for her performances across diverse genres like country, rock, pop, light opera, and Latin music.
Linda Evangelista is a renowned Canadian fashion model celebrated for her over 700 magazine covers and iconic quote about her modeling fees.
Linda Marie McMahon is an American politician and business executive who serves as the U.S. Secretary of Education and previously led the Small Business Administration.
Linda McCartney was an American photographer and musician who served as keyboardist and harmony vocalist in Wings with her husband, Paul McCartney.
Linda Hamilton is an American actress celebrated for her iconic role as Sarah Connor in The Terminator series and her numerous award wins.
Linda Perry is an American singer-songwriter and producer who gained fame with 4 Non Blondes and has crafted hits for artists like Christina Aguilera and Pink, leading to her Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
Linda Anita Carty, a former schoolteacher, is on death row in Texas for murdering Joana Rodriguez to kidnap her baby, though she claims she was framed.
Linda Evans is a retired American actress best known for her role as Krystle Carrington in Dynasty and for playing Audra Barkley in The Big Valley.
Linda Cardellini is an American actress known for her roles in Freaks and Geeks, ER, and Dead to Me, the latter earning her an Emmy nomination.
Linda P. Fried is an American geriatrician and epidemiologist who made history as the first female dean of Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health, focusing her research on healthy aging and how society can thrive with an older population.
Linda Ellerbee is an American journalist renowned for her longtime role as an NBC correspondent and as the 25-year host of Nickelodeon's Nick News, where she covered serious issues for young audiences without condescension.
Linda Lorelle is a former Houston news anchor who now leads her own media firm and co-founded the Civil Dialogues democracy initiative.
Linda Ruth Williams is a professor of film studies at the University of Exeter, known for her expertise in sexuality, censorship, and women in cinema.
Linda Diane Thompson is an American songwriter, former actress, and beauty pageant winner.
Susan Clarke
Curated bySusan Clarke

Assistant Editor