Erma is a unique and distinctive given name of German origin. It is derived from the Germanic word "ermanna," which means "entirely male." The name was traditionally used for boys, but in some cultures today it is also used as a girl's name.
The name Erma gained popularity during the Middle Ages in Germany. It was often associated with powerful and influential families, and many notable figures throughout history have borne this name. For example, there was Ermanaric, a fifth-century Ostrogoth king who was known for his bravery and military prowess.
Despite its Germanic origins, Erma has been adopted by various cultures over the centuries. In some English-speaking countries, it may be considered more of an unusual or eccentric choice due to its rarity outside of Germany. However, those who choose this name often appreciate its unique sound and history.
Overall, Erma is a strong and memorable name with deep roots in German history. Whether given as a boys' or girls' name, it carries with it a sense of power, strength, and timelessness.
The name Erma has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States, as indicated by the annual birth statistics provided.
From 1880 to 1915, there was a consistent increase in the number of babies named Erma. The figure started at 30 births in 1880 and reached its peak during this period with 1375 births in 1915. This indicates that the name Erma was quite popular during this era.
However, starting from 1916, there was a significant decrease in the popularity of the name Erma. The number of babies named Erma dropped to 1436 births in 1917 and continued to decline until it reached a low point of 15 births in 2009.
Despite this decrease in popularity, the name Erma has maintained a steady presence over the years. From 2010 onwards, the number of babies named Erma has fluctuated between 12 and 33 births per year, indicating that while it may not be as popular as it once was, it is still being chosen by some parents.
In total, there have been 54909 births of girls named Erma in the United States since 1880. This shows that although the popularity of the name has ebbed and flowed over time, it has remained a recurring choice for parents throughout history.