What does Alma mean and where does it come from?
Alma is derived from the Spanish word for 'soul' and has Latin roots meaning 'nourishing.' The name has been used widely in Spanish-speaking countries and among certain communities in the United States. In literature and famous history, it has been used in many contexts, such as Alfred Lord Tennyson
Cultural significance
Alma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of soul.
Peak popularity
Reached #51 in 1896 — currently #461 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Alma?
Alma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Alma Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Alma Rose
Floral · soft ending
Alma Claire
French influence · crisp
Alma Jane
Literary · strong
Alma Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Alma right now?
Rising — up 22 spots — currently #461 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #461 | 666 | ▲ up 22 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #483 | 657 | ▲ up 25 · +8% births |
| 2021 | #508 | 611 | ▲ up 59 · +19% births |
| 2020 | #567 | 515 | ▲ up 120 · +24% births |
| 2015 | #687 | 415 | ▲ up 160 · +31% births |
| 2010 | #847 | 316 | ▼ down 254 · -34% births |
| 2005 | #593 | 478 | ▼ down 102 · -13% births |
| 2000 | #491 | 547 | ▼ down 51 · -6% births |
| 1995 | #440 | 583 | ▼ down 54 · -15% births |
| 1990 | #386 | 684 | ▲ up 23 · +25% births |
| 1985 | #409 | 549 | ▼ down 51 · -17% births |
| 1980 | #358 | 658 | ▲ up 34 · +27% births |
| 1975 | #392 | 519 | ▲ up 28 · -3% births |
| 1970 | #420 | 533 | ▼ down 23 · -3% births |
| 1965 | #397 | 551 | — |
The story of Alma
Alma has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #51 in 1896. More than 162,559 babies have been named Alma since 1880. Once ranked #82 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #461 in 2023. Alma is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Alma in 1896:
Alma by decade
Alma peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5,287 | |
| 1890s | 11,295 | |
| 1900s | 13,204 | |
| 1910s | 27,859 | |
| 1920s ★ | 30,759 | |
| 1930s | 18,529 | |
| 1940s | 12,551 | |
| 1950s | 9,755 | |
| 1960s | 6,480 | |
| 1970s | 5,726 | |
| 1980s | 5,849 | |
| 1990s | 6,151 | |
| 2000s | 4,598 | |
| 2010s | 3,996 | |
| 2020s | 520 | |
What names sound and feel like Alma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Alma also consider these
Common questions about the name Alma
What does the name Alma mean?
Alma means "soul" — a name rooted in Spain tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Alma?
Alma is currently ranked #461 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Alma have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Alma?
Alma originates from Spain tradition. Spain names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Alma?
Alma is a two-syllable name pronounced AA1 L M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Alma trending right now?
Alma is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.