Holding steady.
Popularity of Hilmer since 1888
Babies named Hilmer per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1917, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Hilmer's real moment was 1888.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 6 |
| 1890s | 10 |
| 1900s | 10 |
| 1910s | 175 |
| 1920s | 201 |
| 1930s | 64 |
| 1940s | 28 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 5 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Hilmer is a rare Germanic name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1888, its peak year, though it has never been common. With no recorded incidence in recent years, it remains a stable but obscure choice. The name's etymology ties it to Old German elements for battle and protection, reflecting a tradition of strong, warrior-associated names. Lacking a presence in state-level data, Hilmer today is a true rarity, appealing to those seeking an authentic but unused historical name.
Hilmer is a short form of various Germanic names such as Hildebrand and Hilmar. The first element derives from Old High German 'hiltja' (battle) or 'helm' (helmet, protection), combined with 'māri' (famous) or 'heri' (army). It has been used as an independent given name in Germany and Scandinavia since the 19th century, often recorded in Swedish records as a less common variant of Hilmar.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Hilmar
Sibling names for Hilmer
Names that share Hilmer's style, for a brother or sister.
