What does Zulema mean and where does it come from?
Zulema has Arabic roots, derived from the Arabic word 'Salima', meaning 'peace' or 'safe'. It has become popular in Spanish-speaking countries and can also be found in Turkey. The name symbolizes tranquility and security. Notable people with the name include Zulema Yoma, the Argentine model.
Cultural significance
Zulema has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of peace.
Peak popularity
Reached #1478 in 1889 — currently #3135 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spanish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Zulema?
Zulema works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Zulema Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Zulema Rose
Floral · soft ending
Zulema Mae
Sweet · timeless
Zulema Claire
French influence · crisp
Zulema Jane
Literary · strong
Zulema Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Zulema right now?
Falling — down 713 spots — currently #3135 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #3135 | 53 | ▼ down 713 · -30% births |
| 2022 | #2422 | 76 | ▼ down 497 · -26% births |
| 2021 | #1925 | 103 | ▲ up 191 · +21% births |
| 2020 | #2116 | 85 | ▲ up 1796 · +124% births |
| 2015 | #3912 | 38 | ▼ down 393 · -16% births |
| 2010 | #3519 | 45 | ▼ down 693 · -22% births |
| 2005 | #2826 | 58 | ▼ down 611 · -18% births |
| 2000 | #2215 | 71 | ▼ down 627 · -25% births |
| 1995 | #1588 | 95 | ▲ up 167 · +14% births |
| 1990 | #1755 | 83 | ▲ up 736 · +113% births |
| 1985 | #2491 | 39 | ▼ down 92 · -2% births |
| 1980 | #2399 | 40 | ▼ down 680 · -27% births |
| 1975 | #1719 | 55 | ▲ up 555 · +62% births |
| 1970 | #2274 | 34 | ▲ up 1009 · +127% births |
| 1965 | #3283 | 15 | — |
The story of Zulema
Zulema has been a beloved American name for over 135 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1889. With 3,705 total births recorded, Zulema remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2050 in 1905, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #3135 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Zulema in 1889:
Zulema by decade
Zulema peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 43 | |
| 1920s | 145 | |
| 1930s | 146 | |
| 1940s | 183 | |
| 1950s | 194 | |
| 1960s | 230 | |
| 1970s | 439 | |
| 1980s | 412 | |
| 1990s ★ | 803 | |
| 2000s | 592 | |
| 2010s | 423 | |
| 2020s | 85 | |
💎With 3,705 total births, Zulema is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Zulema?
Famous people named Zulema
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Zulema (Flamenco artist)
Zulema carried this name in the vibrant tradition of Spanish music and dance.
Z(
Zulema (Spanish conquistador or explorer)
Zulema bore this name during the Age of Exploration, spreading it across the Americas.
Z(
Zulema (Spanish saint)
Zulema helped establish this name across the Spanish-speaking Catholic world.
Z(
Zulema (Flamenco artist)
Zulema carried this name in the vibrant tradition of Spanish music and dance.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Zulema?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Zulema also consider these
Common questions about the name Zulema
What does the name Zulema mean?
Zulema means "Peace" — a name rooted in Spanish 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 Zulema?
Zulema is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Zulema?
Zulema originates from Spanish tradition. Spanish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Zulema?
Zulema pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Spanish heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Zulema a common or rare name?
Zulema is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.