Talma

Meaning & origin

Talma is a rare feminine name that appeared in U.S. birth records starting in 1914. Its highest point of use came in 1931, during which it saw a modest uptick, and it has since maintained a stable but low level of usage. The name has never ranked among the top 1000 names, and its incidence is so low that the '1-in-N' statistic is unavailable. Talma's origins are uncertain; it is often grouped with names like Telma and Thelma, which were more common in the same era. The name likely gained some attention during the 1930s, but without any strong cultural or literary ties. Its top states of use are not recorded, indicating widespread but sparse distribution. Today, Talma is almost unheard of, making it a highly distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon name with a vintage feel.

Talma is a name of uncertain origin, though it is often considered a variant of Telma, which itself may be a feminine form of Tal (Hebrew for 'dew') or derived from the Hebrew word 'tel' meaning 'mound' or 'hill'. It saw modest use in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1930s, but has since become rare. The name has no strong historical or literary associations.