Giselda

German

"pledge, hostage"

Giselda Origin and Meaning

The name Giselda is a girl's name of German origin.

Giselda is a feminine name with Germanic origins, derived from 'gisil' meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage' and 'hild' meaning 'battle.' This powerful historical name was carried by several noble women during the Middle Ages, including Lombardic queens and princesses. With its flowing three-syllable rhythm and elegant ending, Giselda carries an aristocratic European flair that evokes images of medieval castles and courtly romance. While uncommon in modern usage, it maintains appeal for parents seeking names with historical depth and distinctive character. The name has variations across European languages, including Giselle in French and Griselda in Spanish literature. Giselda combines strength and femininity, with its battle-related etymology contrasting with its soft, melodic sound, creating a name with interesting dualities and rich cultural connections.

Famous People Named Giselda

• Giselda Castrini (b. 1945) Italian actress
• Giselda Volodi (b. 1959) Italian actress

The name Giselda in Pop Culture

• Giselda heroine in Barbara Cartland's book The Mysterious Maid,Servant
• Giselda song by Ultraje a Rigor
• This is the Dutch German, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese form of Giselhild, a Germanic name derived from gisel "hostage" (or "pledge") combined with Old Norse hildr "battle."