Helma is a unique and charming feminine given name of German origin. Derived from the Germanic word 'helm', which means 'helmet' or 'protection', it has been used throughout history, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia. The name Helma is composed of two elements: 'Hel-', meaning 'hidden' or 'protected', and '-ma', a diminutive suffix that gives the name a sweet and endearing touch. Despite its Germanic roots, variations of this name can be found among various cultures due to historical influences and migrations. Today, Helma remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet appealing name for their daughter.
The name Helma had a fluctuating popularity between 1880 and 1952, with significant peaks in certain years. It started with moderate numbers in the late 1800s, ranging from 6 to 14 births per year. The decade of the 1910s saw an increase, particularly in the years leading up to World War I, with a high of 23 births in both 1915 and 1918. Post-war, the popularity of the name Helma dipped slightly but remained relatively steady until the late 1920s when it began to decline more significantly. By the mid-1930s, fewer than 10 girls were named Helma each year, with some years reporting only 5 births. This trend continued through the 1940s and into the early 1950s, suggesting that by this time, the name Helma had fallen out of fashion. Overall, there were a total of 595 girls named Helma during these years.