What is the Meaning of the Name Norma?

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision, and one that can have a lasting impact on their life. Many parents look for names that have a special meaning or significance, or that reflect their cultural heritage. One name that has been popular for baby girls for over a century is Norma. But what is the meaning of the name Norma, and where does it come from?

Norma is a Latin name that means 'rule' or 'pattern'. It is derived from the Latin word 'norma', which originally referred to a carpenter's square or ruler. Over time, the word came to be used more broadly to mean a standard or guideline. The name Norma was first used in the 19th century, and became popular in the early 20th century. It was likely inspired by the opera 'Norma', which was composed by Vincenzo Bellini in 1831. The opera tells the story of a Druid priestess named Norma, who falls in love with a Roman soldier. The name Norma was also used in literature, including in the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Nathaniel Hawthorne.

The name Norma was most popular in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s, when it was consistently ranked among the top 100 names for baby girls. However, its popularity has declined in recent decades, and it is now considered a less common name. According to the Social Security Administration, the name Norma was given to just 66 baby girls in 2020. Despite its declining popularity, the name Norma remains a classic and timeless choice for parents looking for a traditional name with a strong meaning.

There are several variations of the name Norma, including Normina, Normita, and Normandie. These variations are less common than the original name, but can provide a unique twist for parents who want a similar name with a different sound. Another variation is the name Norman, which is a masculine name that shares the same Latin root as Norma. Norman was a popular name for baby boys in the mid-20th century, but has also declined in popularity in recent years.

Several famous people have been named Norma, including the American actress Norma Shearer, who was a major star in the 1920s and 1930s. Shearer won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the film 'The Divorcee' in 1930. Another famous Norma is the American singer Norma Jean, who was popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Norma Jean was known for her country and rockabilly music, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. Other notable people with the name Norma include the American politician Norma Torres and the Mexican actress Norma Lazareno.

In conclusion, the name Norma is a classic and timeless choice for parents looking for a traditional name with a strong meaning. Its Latin origin and association with the opera 'Norma' give it a sense of history and culture, while its declining popularity makes it a less common choice for parents who want a name that stands out. Whether you choose the name Norma or one of its variations, it is a name that is sure to make a lasting impression.