Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Willma

      Origin

      English, German

      Meaning

      Resolute Protector or Willful Guardian

      Variations

      Willmar, Wilima, Willam
      The name Wilma is of English and German origin, derived from the Old German name “Wilhelmina.” It is a feminine form that translates to resolute protector or willful guardian. The name conveys strength and determination, reflecting attributes of a protective and steadfast individual. Wilma embodies a sense of loyalty and guardianship, making it a meaningful choice for many.

      Historically, the name Wilma gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in English-speaking countries. It saw a significant surge in usage after the release of the animated television series The Flintstones in the 1960s, where Wilma Flintstone, the main character, became widely recognized. Over the years, the name has also been associated with various notable figures, including Wilma Rudolph, the American Olympic sprinter who became the first woman to win three gold medals at a single Olympic Games in 1960. This historical context adds to the name's allure and recognition.

      In contemporary society, Wilma remains a respected and charming name, though its popularity has fluctuated. While it may not be as common as it once was, it still holds a classic appeal, particularly among those who appreciate its heritage and meaning. The name continues to be used by parents looking for a distinctive yet traditional choice for their daughters. Additionally, with the increasing interest in vintage names, Wilma is experiencing a revival, appreciated for its uniqueness and timeless qualities in today’s naming trends.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Willma.
      George

      George

      This is the most common name of those married to a Willma.
      Charles

      Charles

      This is the most common name for a child of a Willma.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1906 is when there were the most people born with the first name Willma.

      Explore the origins of another name.