Demelza is a Cornish place name that has been adopted as a feminine given name, primarily in English-speaking countries. The name derives from the Cornish "Dinmelsa," meaning "fort of Melsa" (or "fort of Maeldaf"), referring to ancient hillfort earthworks in the area of the hamlet Demelza in the parish of St Wenn, Cornwall, England.Demelza as a given name gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly after it was used for the character Demelza Carne (later Demelza Poldark) in Winston Graham's Poldark series of historical novels (1945–2002) and their television adaptations. The character, a strong-willed and loyal woman from a humble background, captured the public imagination, especially in the 1970s BBC television series, sparking increased use of the name. A 2015 adaptation further revived interest.EtymologyThe place name Demelza (recorded as Dinmelsa in 1333) combines the Cornish element din, meaning "fort," with a personal name or element possibly Melsa or Maeldaf, meaning "fort of Melsa" or "fort of Maeldaf." The hamlet's ancient hillfort confirms the fort-related origin.Notable BearersDemelza is most famously associated with Demelza Poldark, the fictional heroine of the Poldark novels and television series. In the 1970s TV adaptation, she was played by Angharad Rees, and in the 2015 series, by Eleanor Tomlinson. Notable real-life bearers of the name include Demelza Carne (born 1970s), a British artist; Demelza Hay, a Australian actress; and Demelza O'Brien, a British ceramicist. The name also appears in various online contexts, though many bearers share the Poldark connection.Cultural SignificanceAs a Cornish place name turned given name, Demelza contributes to the revival of distinctly Cornish names, reflecting regional pride and the influence of popular culture on naming trends. Though uncommon in official English statistics over recent years, it retains a literary and cultural cachet.Meaning: Fort of Melsa (or Maeldaf)Origin: CornishType: Place name used as a first nameUsage regions: English-speaking countries (especially UK)Related names: Dinmelsa