All about the name

Elma

Male

« Elma is a Scandinavian girls' name derived from the Old Norse word 'álmr', meaning 'elm tree'. »

#7823 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Elma is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse word "álmr", which means "elm tree". It is also associated with the Germanic element "helma" meaning "protection or helmet". The name has been used throughout history and has been popular in various cultures. The earliest known use of the name Elma was in Sweden during the Middle Ages. It was traditionally given to girls, but in some cases, it could also be used for boys. In Scandinavian countries, the name is often found alongside other tree-related names such as Birgit, Astrid, and Gunilla. In English-speaking countries, Elma has been used sporadically throughout history, but it gained more popularity during the 19th century when it was sometimes used as a short form of Elizabeth or a variant of Amelia. Today, Elma is still considered an uncommon name in many parts of the world, making it unique and distinctive. Overall, Elma is a name with deep roots in Scandinavian history and culture. Its meaning of "elm tree" gives it a natural and earthy feel, while its association with protection or helmet offers a sense of strength and resilience. Despite being relatively uncommon today, Elma remains a beautiful and meaningful choice for parents looking for a unique name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Elma since 1880

Total births
483
Total since 1880
Peak year
1916
23 births
in 1957
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years