Zelda

girlGermanic; also YiddishJewish

Zelda is a girl name of Germanic; also Yiddish origin, meaning “Grey battle; also blessed”.

MeaningGrey battle; also blessed
GenderGirl
OriginGermanic; also Yiddish
PronunciationZEL-duh
TraditionModern & Classic, Jewish
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Israel

Meaning and origin of Zelda

Zelda is usually explained as a short form of Griselda, from Germanic elements usually read as 'grey' and 'battle'. Separately, Zelda is a traditional Yiddish name, often linked to a German word for happiness or blessing. Writer Zelda Fitzgerald made the name famous in the 1920s, and the Legend of Zelda video games made it familiar again worldwide. The meaning 'dark battle' seen online is a loose rendering.

Is Zelda a religious name?

Zelda has no strong religious meaning in English use. In Ashkenazi Jewish families it is a traditional Yiddish name, sometimes paired with the Hebrew name Zahava.

How popular is Zelda?

Uncommon but rising in the United States and Britain.

Gifts with the name Zelda

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Spellings and variants of Zelda

GriseldaSeldaZelde

Names similar to Zelda

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Zelda mean?

Zelda means 'Grey battle; also blessed'. It is of Germanic; also Yiddish origin.

Does Zelda have a religious meaning?

Zelda has no strong religious meaning in English use. In Ashkenazi Jewish families it is a traditional Yiddish name, sometimes paired with the Hebrew name Zahava.

How do you pronounce Zelda?

Zelda is pronounced ZEL-duh.

Is Zelda a boy or girl name?

Zelda is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.