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Origin and meaning of the name Gamla

What is the origin of the name Gamla?

The origin of the name Gamla is uncertain, as it does not have a widely recognized meaning in any known language or culture. It's possible that it could be a shortened or variant form of various names with similar sounds, such as Amelia, Emanuel, or Emma, among others. Without additional context, it's difficult to determine the specific origin of this name.

Learn more about the origin of the name Gamla

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Gamla

The name Gamla is of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew word "gamal," which means 'camel.' It's an uncommon given name but carries historical significance due to its association with the biblical figure, Gamaliel, who was a prominent Pharisee and teacher of Jewish law in the New Testament. Gamaliel I, a highly respected scholar, was the grandfather of Rabbi Saul (Paul), one of the apostles of Jesus. The name has been used sparingly in modern times, but it maintains its connection to ancient religious history and wisdom.

Character traits associated with the name Gamla

The name Gamla is historically of Norse origin and is traditionally associated with strength, courage, and wisdom. Individuals named Gamla are often perceived as strong-willed, resilient, and independent. They are known for their deep sense of loyalty, honesty, and integrity. Gamla individuals may exhibit a strong moral compass, standing up for what they believe in and remaining steadfast in their convictions. They value tradition and history, often demonstrating a deep understanding of the past and a respect for the wisdom it holds. Despite their robust character, Gamla individuals are also known for their compassionate nature, showing empathy towards others and striving to create harmony and balance in their lives.

Popularity of the name Gamla

The name Gamla is not commonly used as a given name in English-speaking countries. It is primarily associated with Scandinavian and Nordic cultures due to its Old Norse origin, meaning 'old' or 'ancient'. In Sweden, it has been occasionally used as a feminine middle name, but not as a first name for newborns. Its rarity in modern usage makes it less popular compared to other traditional names. However, due to the increasing interest in unique and historical names, Gamla might experience a slight increase in popularity in niche circles who appreciate uncommon names with cultural significance.

Famous people with the name Gamla

Gamaliel is a notable figure in Jewish and Christian history, known for his prominence during the time of Jesus Christ and the early Christian Church. He was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, serving as a leader among the Sadducees. In Acts 5:34-40, he is portrayed as defending the apostles Peter and John before the Sanhedrin, which earned him respect from the early Christian community. Another notable individual named Gamaliel was Gamaliel II (circa 30 – circa 110 AD), a leading rabbi who is often considered the founder of the academy in Yavne that played a significant role in shaping the Jewish religious law during the time of the Second Temple and the early Talmudic period. His grandson, Rabban Gamaliel III (circa 70 - circa 135 AD), was also a prominent rabbi who served as the Nasi (President) of the Sanhedrin during the Bar Kokhba revolt against the Roman Empire.

Variations of the name Gamla

The name Gamla, while less common, has several variations and spellings, mostly due to translation differences across different languages and cultures. Some of these variations include:

1. Gamlar (Old Norse) - This is the original Old Norse form of the name. It's a masculine name that means "old" or "ancient".

2. Gamel (Dutch, German) - This spelling is used in Dutch and German-speaking regions as an alternative to the original Old Norse form.

3. Gamle (Norwegian, Danish) - In Scandinavian countries like Norway and Denmark, Gamle is used as a surname and can also be given as a first name, meaning "old" or "ancient".

4. Gamma (Latin alphabet symbol) - While not a personal name, it's worth mentioning that the Greek letter Gamma shares some similarities in spelling with Gamla.

5. Camille (French) - Though not directly related etymologically, the name Camille has been said to share a resemblance in sound with Gamla, and may have led to its use as an alternative form in certain contexts.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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