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Origin and meaning of the name Selma

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What is the origin of the name Selma?

The name Selma is of Germanic origin and has Old High German roots. It's derived from the word "selm," which means "lion" or "grey-haired." The name was brought to England by the Normans, where it evolved into the modern form "Selma." The name became popular in English-speaking countries during the Middle Ages and has remained a common given name ever since.

Learn more about the origin of the name Selma

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Selma

The name Selma is of Germanic origin, derived from the Old High German "Selima," which means "dwelling place of the Goddess Sunna." In Norse mythology, Sunna is the goddess of the sun and fertility, making Selma a name rich in celestial and agricultural symbolism. The name was popularized in Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia. The name Selma saw a resurgence in popularity during the Victorian era in England, where it became associated with the strong-willed heroine Selima from Walter Scott's novel "The Betrothed." Today, Selma remains a beloved name for newborn girls, admired for its rich history and timeless elegance.

Character traits associated with the name Selma

Selma is often characterized by intelligence, determination, and empathy. She demonstrates strong leadership qualities, taking charge when situations require decisive action, yet remains compassionate and understanding. Her patience is remarkable, allowing her to listen intently and offer thoughtful advice. Selma also values fairness and equality, making her an advocate for justice and human rights. Despite facing challenges, she exhibits resilience and tenacity, refusing to back down in the pursuit of her goals. Selma's strong personality and caring nature make her a respected and admired individual among her peers.

Popularity of the name Selma

The first name Selma is of moderate popularity globally. In the United States, it has seen a decline in usage over the years but remains somewhat common among certain ethnic groups, particularly those with German or Scandinavian heritage. The name peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1920s and 30s. In Europe, Selma is more commonly used, especially in countries like Germany, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. In these regions, it is often a favorite choice for parents seeking a strong and elegant name for their daughters. Overall, while not among the most popular names globally, Selma is a name with a rich history and cultural significance that continues to resonate in certain circles.

Famous people with the name Selma

Selma is a name associated with prominent figures in various fields. In cinema, Selma Blair is an American actress best known for her roles in films such as "Cruel Intentions" and "The Sweetest Thing." In music, Selma Plath, also known as Selma Yagmur, is a Turkish singer-songwriter who gained recognition with her debut album "Bir Şeyler Düşündüm." Politically, Selma Yağmur-James was the first Muslim woman to be elected to the Tennessee General Assembly in the United States. In sports, Selma Meyerhoff was a pioneering female tennis player from Sweden who competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics. Lastly, Selma Lagerlöf was a Swedish writer and the first woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature for her novel "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils." Each of these women has made significant contributions in their respective fields.

Variations of the name Selma

The name Selma originates from Germanic roots and has several variations across different cultures and languages. In English, it is commonly spelled as Selma, but it can also appear as Selme or Selmia. In the Nordic countries, the name is often written as Sylva, Silvia, or Sylvia. In Spanish, it may be Selma, Selmah, or Zelia. The name can be found in various forms in other languages too, such as Selmah (Hebrew), Selmie (Armenian), and Selima (Slavic). Despite these variations, the name Selma generally means "lioness" or "defender," reflecting its strong and powerful connotations.
NomOrigine Team
About the author :

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.

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