Pronunciation: [ɪmˈɛldə] (IPA) 
The name Imelda is spelled "ɪˈmɛldə". The first syllable has the short "i" sound followed by the "m" and "ɛ" sounds. The second syllable has the "l" sound followed by the "d" sound and a schwa sound at the end. This name has Spanish and Italian origins and means "universal battle". It gained popularity in the 20th century and is associated with the former First Lady of the Philippines, Imelda Marcos.
Imelda is a feminine given name with Spanish and Italian origins. It is derived from the Germanic name "Irmhild", which means "whole battle" or "universal battle".
In Spanish-speaking countries, Imelda is known to have gained popularity due to the influence of Saint Imelda of Castello. She was an Italian Dominican nun who lived during the 14th century and was renowned for her piety and devotion to God. Saint Imelda is especially venerated as the patroness of young people, and for this reason, Imelda is often associated with youthful innocence, purity, and religious devotion.
Imelda may also be regarded as a reference to former First Lady of the Philippines, Imelda Marcos. She was the wife of President Ferdinand Marcos, and her name became synonymous with extravagance and opulence. Imelda Marcos was known for her immense collection of shoes and her lavish lifestyle, symbolizing wealth and excess.
Hence, the name "Imelda" often evokes contrasting connotations: on one hand, it carries religious and virtuous associations related to Saint Imelda, while on the other hand, it can be linked to materialism and opulence due to the association with Imelda Marcos. Ultimately, the interpretation of the name may vary depending on cultural, historical, and personal contexts.
The name Imelda is of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Germanic elements irmin or ermen, which means whole or universal, and hild, which means battle or war. Hence, Imelda could be translated as universal battle or universal warrior.
