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Meaning of Name Thelma

Origin and Meaning of the Name Thelma

Thelma is a name of Greek origin, which means 'will, volition'. It was first used in the late 19th century and became popular in the early 20th century. The name was made famous by the 1908 novel 'Thelma' by Marie Corelli, which tells the story of a Norwegian princess named Thelma who falls in love with an Englishman. The novel was a huge success and helped to popularize the name Thelma.

Popularity of the Name Thelma

Thelma was a very popular name in the United States in the early 20th century. It reached its peak in popularity in the 1920s, when it was one of the top 100 names for girls. However, its popularity declined in the following decades, and it is now a relatively uncommon name. According to the Social Security Administration, Thelma was the 1,776th most popular name for girls in 2020.

Personality Traits of the Name Thelma

People with the name Thelma are said to be independent, strong-willed, and determined. They have a strong sense of purpose and are not easily swayed by others. They are also known for their intelligence and creativity. Thelmas are natural leaders and are often successful in their careers. However, they can also be stubborn and opinionated, which can sometimes lead to conflicts with others.

Famous Namesakes of the Name Thelma

There have been several famous people named Thelma throughout history. One of the most notable is Thelma Ritter, an American actress who appeared in over 70 films and was nominated for six Academy Awards. Another famous Thelma is Thelma Houston, an American singer who won a Grammy Award for her hit song 'Don't Leave Me This Way' in 1977. Other famous Thelmas include Thelma Todd, an American actress who appeared in over 100 films in the 1920s and 1930s, and Thelma Schoonmaker, an American film editor who has won three Academy Awards for her work on films such as 'Raging Bull' and 'The Departed'.

Variations of the Name Thelma

There are several variations of the name Thelma, including Thelmina, Thelmarie, and Thelmon. Another variation is Telma, which is a popular name in several countries, including Brazil and Portugal. Telma is also a brand name for a medication used to treat high blood pressure.

Final Thoughts on the Name Thelma

Thelma is a beautiful name with a rich history and meaning. Although it is not as popular as it once was, it is still a great choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child. Whether you choose to name your child Thelma or a variation of the name, you can be sure that it will be a name that stands out and has a special significance.