What does Gilma mean and where does it come from?
Gilma is a name of Hebrew origin. In Hebrew (גילמה), it can imply youth or playfulness. While less common today, it reflects a cultural appreciation for names that evoke joy and liveliness. The name can also be found among Jewish communities around the world and might feature variations in spelling.
Cultural significance
Gilma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a young girl.
Peak popularity
Reached #1276 in 1899 — currently #884 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Gilma?
Gilma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gilma Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Gilma Rose
Floral · soft ending
Gilma Mae
Sweet · timeless
Gilma Claire
French influence · crisp
Gilma Jane
Literary · strong
Gilma Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Gilma right now?
Holding steady — currently #884 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #884 | 1,316 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #889 | 1,296 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #894 | 1,266 | ▲ up 12345 · +21000% births |
| 2000 | #13239 | 6 | ▼ down 2708 · +20% births |
| 1980 | #10531 | 5 | ▼ down 4025 |
| 1960 | #6506 | 5 | ▼ down 2339 · -17% births |
| 1930 | #4167 | 6 | ▼ down 709 · -33% births |
| 1925 | #3458 | 9 | ▲ up 1080 · +50% births |
| 1920 | #4538 | 6 | ▼ down 124 · +20% births |
| 1915 | #4414 | 5 | — |
The story of Gilma
Gilma has been a beloved American name for over 125 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1899. With 228 total births recorded, Gilma remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4414 in 1915 to #884 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Gilma in 1899:
Gilma by decade
Gilma peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 8 | |
| 1900s | 15 | |
| 1910s ★ | 42 | |
| 1920s | 32 | |
| 1930s | 19 | |
| 1950s | 7 | |
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 27 | |
| 1980s | 39 | |
| 1990s | 21 | |
| 2000s | 13 | |
💎Gilma has only 228 total recorded births since 1899 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Gilma?
Famous people named Gilma
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Gilma (historical community leader)
Gilma led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
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Gilma (historical figure)
Gilma bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Gilma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gilma also consider these
Common questions about the name Gilma
What does the name Gilma mean?
Gilma means "a young girl" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Gilma?
Gilma is currently ranked #884 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Gilma?
Gilma originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Gilma?
Gilma is a two-syllable name pronounced G IH1 L M AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Gilma a common or rare name?
Gilma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.