Zelma is a unique and historic given name that originated from Germany, translating to "protection" or "helmet." The name was quite popular during the Middle Ages but has since become more scarce, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child. Zelma is also found in other European languages and cultures, including Hebrew where it means "dream," further adding to its rich history and symbolism.
The name Zelma experienced varying popularity throughout the early to mid-20th century, with a notable peak of 12 births in 1921 and consistently lower numbers in other years. The total number of Zelma births from 1888 to 1944 was 112.