Elma
EL-muh
Elma is a girl’s name of Germanic origin, meaning “A short form of Wilhelma or names ending in -elma. Wilhelma is Germanic meaning 'helmet' or 'protection' and 'will' or 'desire'.”. It currently ranks #4575 in the US, and peaked in popularity in 1918.
What Elma Means
“A short form of Wilhelma or names ending in -elma. Wilhelma is Germanic meaning 'helmet' or 'protection' and 'will' or 'desire'.”
The Story of Elma
This name, with its Germanic roots of protection and desire, feels like a shield of love waiting for your daughter.
Elma is a short form, often derived from Germanic names like Wilhelmina or names ending in -elma. These names carry meanings of 'helmet' or 'protection' (from 'helm') combined with 'will' or 'desire' (from 'will'). It was more common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, evoking a sense of gentle strength.
When you test the sound of 'Elma,' it feels soft yet resilient, like a gentle hand offering steadfast protection. It’s a name that suggests a practical kindness, a quiet capability. You imagine writing it on a baby blanket, knowing it carries a wish for your daughter's safety and a deep well of love, a name that feels like coming home.
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Numerology
The Idealist
Compassionate, humanitarian, and visionary. Names vibrating at 9 carry universal love.
Famous Namesakes
Elma Karlowa
Yugoslavian actress during the 1930s.
Personality Traits
Peak Year
#674 in 1918
Total Births
22,152
First Recorded
1880
More Names Like Elma
View allEmma
Germanic
Meaning
Emma means 'universal' or 'whole'. It is of Germanic origin, originally a diminutive of names beginning with 'ermen'.
Amelia
Germanic
Meaning
Work. From the Germanic name Amalia, meaning 'work' or 'striving'.
Ava
Germanic
Meaning
Ava has uncertain origins, possibly derived from the Germanic name Avila, meaning 'desired'. It may also be a short form of names like Avaline or Chava (Hebrew for 'life').
Explore related name groups
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