Thelma

♀ Girl

Thelma Pronunciation

Thelma is pronounced THEL-mah /ˈθɛl.mɑ/High

Meaning: From Greek thelema, 'will, volition, wish' — popularized by an 1887 novelMedium

In 30 seconds: Vintage and strong-willed: Thelma is Greek 'will, volition' — a spirited classic (Thelma & Louise). Retro charm with backbone.

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Origin MediumGreek

MeaningFrom Greek thelema, 'will, volition, wish' — popularized by an 1887 novel

U.S. rank (2024)#4446 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births32 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year1921

Total births (all-time)≈ 225,429

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Thelma comes from Greek thelema, 'will, volition, wish' — popularized by Marie Corelli's 1887 novel Thelma (its coinage is sometimes debated, which we note). A spirited, retro classic.

It registers thinly today. Rare, will at the root, and spirited.

Did you know? Thelma comes from Greek thelema, 'will' — popularized by Marie Corelli's 1887 novel; Thelma & Louise made the vintage name iconic.

Overall data confidence 70%

Behind the Name — Thelma — coinage debated

Variations

TelmaThelmah

Nicknames

Thel

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Thelma…

Selma— a companion -lma name

Wilma— another retro -lma name

Alma— a fellow soft vintage name

Tracy— a similarly popular pick

Teddy— another Greek name

→ See all names like Thelma

Browse the whole category: All Greek names → · All origins →

Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Thelma?

Thelma is pronounced THEL-mah (/ˈθɛl.mɑ/). Press play above to hear Thelma said aloud.

How do you say Thelma?

Thelma is said THEL-mah (/ˈθɛl.mɑ/). Press play above to hear Thelma said aloud.

What does the name Thelma mean?

Thelma is from Greek thelema, 'will, volition'; its coinage is sometimes debated.

Is Thelma a boy or girl name?

Thelma is a girl's name.

How popular is Thelma?

Thelma is a rare name in the U.S. today.