Combination of the prefix La and the name Wanda
Lawanda is a modern American creation, likely emerging in the mid-20th century. It combines the popular African American naming prefix 'La' with the Germanic name Wanda, which traditionally means 'a wanderer' or 'Slavic woman'. The name saw its peak popularity in the United States during the 1970s.
Less common today
Lawanda isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #1,703 in 1990.
American actress and comedian best known as Aunt Esther on Sanford and Son
American professional basketball player
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
