What does Zulma mean and where does it come from?
Zulma (زلمى) has Arabic origins, meaning 'calm' or 'tranquil'. The name saw a rise in popularity in the 20th century, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries. It has a lyrical quality, making it appealing to many Hispanic cultures. Notable personalities include Zulma Faiad, an Argentine actress.
Cultural significance
Zulma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Argentina-speaking communities, where it reflects values of calm, tranquil.
Peak popularity
Reached #1752 in 1974 — currently #13446 in the US.
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Related Reading
Argentina-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Zulma?
Zulma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Zulma Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Zulma Rose
Floral · soft ending
Zulma Mae
Sweet · timeless
Zulma Claire
French influence · crisp
Zulma Jane
Literary · strong
Zulma Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Zulma right now?
Falling — down 3152 spots — currently #13446 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #13446 | 7 | ▼ down 3152 · -22% births |
| 2020 | #10294 | 9 | ▼ down 1966 · -36% births |
| 2010 | #8328 | 14 | ▼ down 1740 · -22% births |
| 2005 | #6588 | 18 | ▼ down 2580 · -42% births |
| 2000 | #4008 | 31 | ▼ down 398 · +3% births |
| 1995 | #3610 | 30 | ▲ up 817 · +36% births |
| 1990 | #4427 | 22 | ▼ down 505 · +5% births |
| 1985 | #3922 | 21 | ▼ down 821 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #3101 | 28 | ▼ down 606 · -12% births |
| 1975 | #2495 | 32 | ▼ down 645 · -33% births |
| 1970 | #1850 | 48 | ▲ up 342 · +60% births |
| 1965 | #2192 | 30 | ▲ up 883 · +76% births |
| 1960 | #3075 | 17 | ▲ up 6 · +13% births |
| 1955 | #3081 | 15 | ▲ up 2131 · +150% births |
| 1950 | #5212 | 6 | — |
The story of Zulma
Zulma entered American naming records in 1947 and has been in use for over 77 years. With 1,640 total births recorded, Zulma remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5212 in 1950, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13446 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Zulma in 1974:
Zulma by decade
Zulma peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 15 | |
| 1950s | 141 | |
| 1960s | 260 | |
| 1970s ★ | 381 | |
| 1980s | 233 | |
| 1990s | 288 | |
| 2000s | 234 | |
| 2010s | 79 | |
| 2020s | 9 | |
💎With 1,640 total births, Zulma is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Zulma?
What names sound and feel like Zulma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Zulma also consider these
Common questions about the name Zulma
What does the name Zulma mean?
Zulma means "calm, tranquil" — a name rooted in Argentina 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 Zulma?
Zulma is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Zulma have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Zulma?
Zulma originates from Argentina tradition. Argentina 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 Zulma?
Zulma is a two-syllable name pronounced Z UH1 L M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Zulma trending right now?
Zulma is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.