Ilma

♀ Girl

Pronounced IL-muh /ˈɪl.mə/Medium

Meaning: Ilma is the Finnish and Estonian word for 'air' and a long-used girl's name in both countries. In parts of central Europe it also works as a short form of Wilhelmina. Both routes are real.Medium

In 30 seconds: Light as its meaning: Ilma is the Finnish and Estonian word for 'air' (said 'IL-muh').

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Origin MediumFinnish, Estonian

MeaningIlma is the Finnish and Estonian word for 'air' and a long-used girl's name in both countries. In parts of central Europe it also works as a short form of Wilhelmina. Both routes are real.

U.S. rank (2024)#14094 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births6 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year1917

Total births (all-time)≈ 410

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Ilma is the everyday Finnish and Estonian word for air, and a given name of long standing in both countries; it echoes Ilmatar, the air spirit of the Finnish Kalevala. In parts of central Europe it also serves as a clipped Wilhelmina (said 'IL-muh').

It is very rare for girls in the U.S. and familiar around the Baltic. Short, elemental, and airy.

Did you know? Ilma simply means 'air' in Finnish and Estonian — one of those elemental word-names Nordic families reach for. Elsewhere in Europe it doubles as a short form of Wilhelmina (said 'IL-muh').

Overall data confidence 55%

References — Ilma — Finnish/Estonian 'air'; Ilmatar in the Kalevala; short form of Wilhelmina

Variations

IlmiIlmeIlmatar

Nicknames

IlmiIly

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Ilma…

Alma— a near-twin in sound and shape

Ilona— a like Finnish-Hungarian favourite

Wilma— the fuller name Ilma sometimes shortens

Elma— a close vintage rhyme

Explore names like Ilma

By themeshort nature international finnish

By meaningWind / Air

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Ilma mean?

Ilma is the Finnish and Estonian word for 'air'. It also works as a short form of Wilhelmina in parts of Europe.

How do you pronounce Ilma?

It's said IL-muh /ˈɪl.mə/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Ilma a boy or girl name?

Ilma is used as a girl's name.

How popular is Ilma?

Ilma is a very rare name for girls in the U.S., though it is familiar in Finland and Estonia.