Casilda
kah-SEEL-dah
Casilda is a Spanish feminine name of uncertain etymology, with two competing theories: that it derives from Arabic qasida (a type of Arabic poem or 'bearer of the lance') reflecting the Moorish cultural influence in medieval Spain, or that it comes from a Germanic root related to 'battle' or 'stronghold.' The name is most closely associated with Saint Casilda of Toledo, an eleventh-century Moorish princess who converted to Christianity, making the Arabic origin theory particularly compelling given her historical context.
At a glance
A mysterious Spanish name possibly from Arabic or Germanic roots, defined by the legend of a Moorish princess who secretly aided Christian prisoners. Rare, evocative, and uniquely Spanish.
Etymology & History
The etymology is debated. One theory links Casilda to Arabic qasida, a type of ode or poem, and by extension 'bearer of the lance.' Another connects it to Germanic kasil or similar roots relating to 'castle' or 'battle strength.' Given the life of Saint Casilda, daughter of the Moorish king of Toledo, the Arabic origin is considered more historically plausible by many scholars.
Cultural Significance
Saint Casilda of Toledo (circa 1007-1107) is the patron saint of Burgos, Spain. According to hagiography, she was a Moorish princess who secretly brought bread to Christian prisoners. When discovered, the bread was miraculously transformed into roses. She later traveled to Burgos, was cured of illness, converted to Christianity, and lived as a hermit. The miracle of the roses is depicted in many artworks across northern Spain.
Famous people named Casilda
Saint Casilda of Toledo
Casilda de Silva
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Casilda
Calixta
“Most beautiful”
Calixta is the Spanish feminine form of Calixto, derived from the Greek Kallistos, a superlative form of kalos meaning 'beautiful.' The name thus means 'most beautiful' or 'supremely lovely.' It has deep roots in both classical Greek culture and early Christianity, with several early church figures bearing the related name Callistus. In Spanish-speaking cultures, Calixta is a rare and elegant vintage name that carries both aesthetic and spiritual connotations.
Camila
“Temple servant”
Camila derives from the Latin name Camillus, which referred to a young ceremonial attendant at religious rites. In Virgil's Aeneid, Camilla was a fearless warrior maiden, lending the name an additional dimension of boldness and grace. The Spanish spelling without the double 'l' gives it an elegant, flowing quality.
Caridad
“Charity and love”
Caridad is the Spanish form of the Latin Caritas, meaning 'charity,' 'love,' 'dear,' or 'Christian love.' It is derived from carus, meaning 'dear' or 'beloved.' Caritas in Catholic theology represents the highest form of love, the selfless and divine love described by Saint Paul in 1 Corinthians 13. As a given name, Caridad honors this virtue and is particularly associated with the Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of Charity, the patroness of Cuba.
Carmela
“Garden, vineyard”
Carmela is derived from the Hebrew word 'karmel', meaning 'garden' or 'vineyard'. It is closely associated with Mount Carmel, the lush, fertile mountain range celebrated in scripture for its beauty and abundance. The name evokes images of natural splendour, fruitfulness, and a deep connection to the land.
Celestina
“Heavenly, of the sky”
Celestina is an elaborated form of the Latin 'caelestis,' meaning heavenly or of the sky, derived from 'caelum' (sky, heaven). It is the feminine and somewhat ornate form of Célestin and Céleste, with the -ina suffix adding a musical, Italian-influenced sweetness to an already luminous name. Used in France and across Romance-language cultures, Celestina evokes sacred beauty, the infinite sky, and a serene spiritual elevation that gives the name a gentle grandeur.
Where you'll find Casilda
Casilda shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.