Holding steady.
Popularity of Anselma since 1916
Babies named Anselma per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 31 |
| 1920s | 69 |
| 1930s | 45 |
| 1940s | 13 |
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 11 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 10 |
| 1990s | 5 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Anselma is a rare feminine name of Germanic origin, meaning 'God's helmet'. It was first recorded in the United States in 1916 and saw its greatest popularity in the 1920s, peaking in 1924. The name has not appeared in the top 1000 since the mid-20th century and has remained stable in its rarity. Derived from the masculine Anselm, it shares roots with names like Ansel and Anselmo. Despite its obscurity, Anselma carries a strong, protective meaning and a vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking uncommon names with historical depth.
Anselma is the feminine form of Anselm, derived from the Germanic elements 'ans' (god) and 'helm' (helmet, protection). The name was introduced to England by the Normans but remained rare. It saw modest use in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1920s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ans, Sela, Elma
Variants: Anselmina, Anseline
Sibling names for Anselma
Names that share Anselma's style, for a brother or sister.
