Alma

“soul”

Spain origin · Unisex name

♂ 1% boys♀ 99% girls

#461US 2023

666Births / yr

↑Rising

162.6kAll-time births

📅 Since 1880🏆 48 years in top 1000.52% of births at peak

How to pronounce Alma

AH·lmuh

/ˈɑ.lmə/ · stress on AH · 2 syllables

“soul”

Spain origin · Unisex name

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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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

How popular is Alma right now?

Rising — up 22 spots — currently #461 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1880–2023#461 · Top 0.34%

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

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	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Alma

Best Year1905Rank #56

Peak Count3,584

Average Rank#331

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1900 - 202328 years

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:

Mary Anna Helen Margaret Ruth

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

Palma

Spain · Latin

Almar

Germanic · Noble and famous

Arabic · peaceful, safe

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.