The word
integral has several meanings: (1) "essential to completeness," (2) "composed of integral
parts," (3) "lacking nothing essential, entire," and (4) "being, containing, or relating to one or more
mathematical integers."
Since Integral is one of the main characters in
Hellsing, her presence is obviously essential to
the story, and this interpretation fits with the first definition. The second and third definitions are
similar - it can be argued that Integral has all the necessary characteristics and traits needed to lead
Hellsing and to survive on her own. The fourth definition does not apply.
Integral is derived from the Latin word
integer. One of the feminine forms of
integer
is
integra, which is Integral's nickname. Some definitions of the Latin word
integer include:
(1) "complete, whole, entire, intact; fresh, sound, unexhausted" (2) "in quality, [unspoilt, pure, fresh];
morally, [innocent, uncorrupted, pure]; in thought or feeling, [balanced, unbiased, impartial]; of matters
for discussion or action, [unprejudiced, undecided]" (3) "renewed, begun afresh".
Although the first meaning is somewhat similar to meanings of
integral, the second meaning offers
some new interpretations of Integra's name. Although Integra is a virgin,
integra relating to
morality or thoughts is also interesting. Although Integra is definitely biased (especially against the
Vatican and the undead) and has specific, set thoughts, morally, she does seem motivated by pure feelings,
emotions, and beliefs. She's not innocent, although she is inexperienced in a lot of things, but in some
sense, she is pure.
Wingates seems to simply be an English name.
Hellsing originates from
Dracula's Abraham Van Helsing, of whom Integral is a descendent. Interestingly,
the booklet that comes with the first Japanese
Hellsing DVD also states that "Hellsing" is an acronym
for "Her Royal England Legions of Legitimate Supernatural and Immortal Night Guard." That's pretty
self-explanatory, I think.
Definitions from
Merriam-Webster Online and
Latin Dictionary and Grammar Aid.