Griselda, also spelled Grizelda, is a feminine given name from Germanic sources that is now used in English, Italian, and Spanish as well. According to the 1990 United States Census, the name was 1,066th in popularity among females in the United States. The name likely specifically stems from the Proto-Germanic language elements *grīsaz, "grey", and *hildiz, meaning "battle" (compare modern German grau and Held), thus literally "gray battle-maid". As a figure in European folklore, Griselda is noted for her patience and obedience and has been depicted in works of art, literature and opera. The name can also be spelled "Griselde", "Grisselda", "Grieselda", "Grizelda", "Gricelda", and "Criselda". Common nicknames include "Zelda", "Selda", "Grissy", "Gris", "Grisel", "Grizel" or "Crisel" People named Griselda or Grizelda include: Fictional characters include: