What does Irma mean and where does it come from?
Irma is derived from the Germanic element 'ermen,' meaning 'whole' or 'universal.' Historically, it has been used in various cultures, particularly in German and Scandinavian regions. It saw considerable popularity in the early 20th century in the United States but has become less common in recent d
Cultural significance
Irma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of universal,.
Peak popularity
Reached #137 in 1911 — currently #3181 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Germanic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Irma?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Irma?
Irma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Irma Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Irma Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Irma Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Irma Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Irma Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Irma Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Irma right now?
Falling — down 589 spots — currently #3181 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #3181 | 50 | ▼ down 589 · -26% births |
| 2024 | #2592 | 68 | ▼ down 1695 · -95% births |
| 2023 | #897 | 1,303 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #902 | 1,283 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #907 | 1,253 | ▲ up 1568 · +1716% births |
| 2020 | #2475 | 69 | ▲ up 167 · +3% births |
| 2015 | #2642 | 67 | ▼ down 303 · -17% births |
| 2010 | #2339 | 81 | ▼ down 672 · -32% births |
| 2005 | #1667 | 119 | ▼ down 458 · -27% births |
| 2000 | #1209 | 164 | ▼ down 256 · -17% births |
| 1995 | #953 | 197 | ▼ down 270 · -37% births |
| 1990 | #683 | 312 | ▲ up 110 · +48% births |
| 1985 | #793 | 211 | ▼ down 234 · -37% births |
| 1980 | #559 | 333 | ▼ down 107 · -22% births |
| 1975 | #452 | 429 | — |
The story of Irma
Irma has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 73,697 babies have received this name. Once ranked #285 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #897 in 2023. Irma is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Irma in 1911:
Irma by decade
Irma peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 733 | |
| 1890s | 2,407 | |
| 1900s | 3,909 | |
| 1910s | 10,471 | |
| 1920s ★ | 12,285 | |
| 1930s | 8,580 | |
| 1940s | 7,790 | |
| 1950s | 9,462 | |
| 1960s | 7,101 | |
| 1970s | 4,038 | |
| 1980s | 2,656 | |
| 1990s | 2,214 | |
| 2000s | 1,347 | |
| 2010s | 635 | |
| 2020s | 187 | |
What are good nicknames for Irma?
Famous people named Irma
I(
Irma (medieval German ruler)
Irma bore this name during the Holy Roman Empire, spreading Germanic naming traditions across Europe.
I(
Irma (German philosopher)
Irma used this name in the rich tradition of German intellectual and philosophical culture.
I(
Irma (Scandinavian royal)
Irma held this name in the Nordic royal courts, giving it aristocratic prestige across Northern Europe.
I(
Irma (Germanic saint)
Irma spread this name through the Germanic missionary tradition of early Christianity.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Irma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Irma also consider these
How is Irma written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Irma
What does the name Irma mean?
Irma means "Universal," — a name rooted in Germanic 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 Irma?
Irma is currently ranked #897 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 Irma?
Irma originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic 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 Irma?
Irma is a two-syllable name pronounced ER-muh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Irma a common or rare name?
Irma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.