All about the name

Thelman

Male

« Thelman is a Greek name meaning "peril" or "danger," popular in medieval France as a noble name, and famously worn by Saint Thelman, a 6th-century martyr. »

#35612 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Thelman is a unique and distinctive name of Greek origin, derived from the ancient Greek word "thelma," which means "peril" or "danger." Despite its somewhat ominous meaning, Thelman has been worn by many notable individuals throughout history. In the Middle Ages, Thelman was a popular given name in France, where it was often used as a diminutive of the Germanic name Adelmann. During this time, Thelman was typically associated with nobility and was borne by several French lords and knights. One of the most famous bearers of the name Thelman was Saint Thelman, also known as Saint Telm, who lived in the 6th century AD. According to legend, Thelman was a Christian monk from Brittany who was martyred for his faith during the Roman persecution. He is now revered as a saint by both the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. In more recent times, Thelman has been used as a given name in various parts of the world. In England, it was most commonly used in the 19th century, while in the United States, it has been borne by several notable individuals, including Thelman B. Mattox, a lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Mississippi in the late 19th century. Today, Thelman remains a rare but memorable name, one that carries with it a rich history and unique meaning. Whether used as a given name or a surname, Thelman is sure to stand out and make a lasting impression.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Thelman since 1880

Total births
7
Total since 1880
Peak year
1922
7 births
in 1922
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years