Felma is a unique and distinctive given name of uncertain origin, yet it has been used in various forms throughout history. It is composed of two elements: 'fel' and 'ma'. The first part, 'fel', could be derived from the Old English word 'fela', which means 'enough'. Alternatively, it might come from the Germanic element 'felja', meaning 'to rush or hurry'. The second part, 'ma', is a common element found in many names, often signifying 'sea' or 'meadow'. Therefore, Felma could potentially translate to 'enough sea' or 'rushing meadow'.
Despite its uncertain origins, Felma has been used in different cultures and time periods. In the Middle Ages, a variant form of the name, Feltje, was recorded as the name of a saint in the Netherlands. This suggests that Felma may have had religious significance at some point in history.
Today, Felma is not a common name, which contributes to its uniqueness. It has been used most frequently in Scandinavia, particularly in Norway and Sweden, but it can also be found in other parts of Europe and beyond. The scarcity of the name allows those who bear it to stand out and carry an air of distinctiveness.
In terms of sound, Felma is a two-syllable name with a soft, flowing rhythm. It starts with the hard 'f' sound followed by the short 'e' vowel sound, creating a strong beginning. The second syllable, 'ma', is pronounced as in 'mother', ending the name on a soft, familiar note.
Overall, Felma is an uncommon yet appealing given name with a rich history and uncertain origins. Its unique sound and scarcity make it a distinctive choice for those who wish to stand out from the crowd.
The name Felma experienced peaks and troughs throughout the early 20th century, with notable spikes occurring around the years 1913 to 1921. However, by the late 1930s, its popularity had significantly decreased.