Valkyrie Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name 'Valkyrie' originates from the Old Norse word 'valkyrja', meaning 'chooser of the slain'. It has evolved through various forms in the English language. Valkyries are characterized by bravery and strength, with no biblical relevance. The concept has gained popularity since the Viking Age, especially in the 19th century, and continues to be perceived positively in modern culture.
The name Valkyrie is most popular in Arizona, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Alpha generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Valkyrie has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, 'Valkyrie' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 21402nd out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 9846th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 2169th out of 30306 names. Discover how the name 'Valkyrie' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Valkyrie"
Pronunciation
/vælˈkɪəri/
Origin
Old Norse
Etymology
The term 'Valkyrie' comes from the Old Norse word 'valkyrja', which means 'chooser of the slain'. In Norse mythology, Valkyries are warrior maidens who choose those who may die and those who may live in battles.
Meaning
chooser of the slain
Language Evolution
Old Norse: valkyrja, Middle English: Valkirie, Modern English: Valkyrie
Historical Usage
The concept of Valkyries has been present in Norse mythology since the Viking Age, gaining more popularity in literature during the 19th century, especially through the works of Wagner and other romanticized depictions of Norse legends.
Variants & Derivatives
Valkyrja, Valkyrie
Modern Popularity & Image
Today, Valkyries are often associated with strength, bravery, and a warrior spirit. They are popular figures in various forms of media, including movies, video games, and literature, often symbolizing female empowerment.
Famous People
Brunnhilde (a notable Valkyrie in Wagner's operas), Various characters in Marvel Comics and films
Explore More Valkyrie Name Visualizations
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Valkyrie"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Valkyrie"
"Valkyrie" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 21402nd of 27321 | 14 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 9846th of 35406 | 162 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 2169th of 30306 | 1,035 |
Regional Popularity of "Valkyrie" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Valkyrie" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
58.96% 2349th/3984 |
72.81% 3267th/4487 |
33.48% 2284th/6822 |
28.41% 1783rd/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity of "Valkyrie"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Valkyrie" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.