What does Delma mean and where does it come from?
Delma is predominantly seen in English-speaking countries and Latin America and has variations across different cultures. While it derives its meaning from the Spanish word for 'the altar,' it can also evoke associations with virtue and sanctity in Hebrew contexts. The name is less common, giving it
Cultural significance
Delma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the altar; from the 'delfina', meaning dolphin..
Peak popularity
Reached #450 in 1907 — currently #1726 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Delma?
Delma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Delma Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Delma Rose
Floral · soft ending
Delma Mae
Sweet · timeless
Delma Claire
French influence · crisp
Delma Jane
Literary · strong
Delma Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Delma right now?
Holding steady — currently #1726 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1726 | 474 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1731 | 454 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #1736 | 424 | ▲ up 11276 · +5957% births |
| 2015 | #13012 | 7 | ▲ up 1531 · +17% births |
| 2005 | #14543 | 6 | ▼ down 3986 · -14% births |
| 1995 | #10557 | 7 | ▼ down 4402 · -50% births |
| 1990 | #6155 | 14 | ▼ down 1052 |
| 1985 | #5103 | 14 | ▼ down 1480 · -36% births |
| 1980 | #3623 | 22 | ▼ down 1255 · -35% births |
| 1975 | #2368 | 34 | ▼ down 727 · -40% births |
| 1970 | #1641 | 57 | ▼ down 493 · -34% births |
| 1965 | #1148 | 86 | ▼ down 17 · -7% births |
| 1960 | #1131 | 92 | ▼ down 263 · -27% births |
| 1955 | #868 | 126 | ▲ up 52 · +34% births |
| 1950 | #920 | 94 | — |
The story of Delma
Delma has been a beloved American name for over 140 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1884. With 9,896 total births recorded, Delma remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1137 in 1885, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1726 in 2023. Delma is used for both genders: 85% female and 15% male.
Names that peaked alongside Delma in 1907:
Delma by decade
Delma peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 36 | |
| 1890s | 129 | |
| 1900s | 415 | |
| 1910s | 1,395 | |
| 1920s ★ | 2,123 | |
| 1930s | 1,785 | |
| 1940s | 1,262 | |
| 1950s | 1,224 | |
| 1960s | 851 | |
| 1970s | 374 | |
| 1980s | 170 | |
| 1990s | 79 | |
| 2000s | 34 | |
| 2010s | 19 | |
💎With 9,896 total births, Delma is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Delma?
What names sound and feel like Delma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Delma also consider these
How is Delma written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Delma
What does the name Delma mean?
Delma means "the altar; from the 'Delfina', meaning dolphin." — a name rooted in English 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 Delma?
Delma is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Delma?
Delma originates from English tradition. English 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 Delma?
Delma is a two-syllable name pronounced D EH1 L M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Delma a common or rare name?
Delma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.