All about the name

Elma

Female

« Elma is a Scandinavian name derived from the Old Norse word "almr," meaning "nourishing" or "of the Elm tree. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Elma is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse word "almr," which means "nourishing" or "of the Elm tree." It is often used as a shortened form of the name Alma, but can also stand alone as a unique given name. The name Elma has been popular throughout history, particularly in Scandinavia. In fact, it was the sixth most common female name in Iceland in 2019. However, its popularity has varied over time and across different countries. For example, while it was quite popular in Finland during the early to mid-20th century, its usage has since declined. Despite its Scandinavian origins, Elma has been used around the world. In Spain, for instance, it is sometimes given as a feminine form of the male name Elmer. In other cases, it may be used simply because parents appreciate its unique sound and meaning. In terms of its meaning, "nourishing" or "of the Elm tree" could potentially inspire people with the name Elma to be nurturing and grounded like an elm tree. However, as mentioned earlier, this presentation will not discuss any traits associated with the name. Overall, Elma is a name with a rich history and an intriguing meaning, making it an interesting choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their daughter.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Elma since 1880

Total births
21,637
Total since 1880
Peak year
1918
659 births
in 2023
23
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+11%
vs previous 5 years