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 Selma

      Origin

      English

      Meaning

      God's Helmet

      Variations

      Anselma, Delma, Salma
      The name Selma has its origins in the English language and carries the meaning of God's Helmet. It is a name with a rich historical and cultural background that has found relevance in both ancient and modern times. Throughout history, Selma has been associated with both mythological and religious contexts, reflecting its significance.

      In ancient mythology, Selma was commonly associated with a divine headpiece worn by gods, symbolizing their protection and strength. This ancient symbolism is still visible in the name's meaning, highlighting its lasting impact and relevance. In religious contexts, Selma denoted the divine favor and guidance one would receive, much like wearing a helmet provides physical protection. This name has resonated across cultures, with variations appearing in different languages and periods, further showcasing its cross-cultural appeal.

      In modern-day usage, the name Selma continues to be cherished and selected by parents for their children. While it may not be as prevalent as some other names, Selma endures as a unique and meaningful choice. It carries an air of strength, protection, and divine blessing, instilling a sense of esteem upon those who bear this name. Whether as a nod to ancient mythology or a reflection of religious significance, Selma remains a powerful name that exudes its origins and has marked its place in history.

      Based on our records...

      Johnson

      Johnson

      This is the most common surname associated with Selma.
      John

      John

      This is the most common name of those married to a Selma.
      Karl

      Karl

      This is the most common name for a child of a Selma.
      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?

      1882 is when there were the most people born with the first name Selma.

      Explore the origins of another name.