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Wilma

Girl name · 93 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Wilma: 93 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 19 births in 1975.

Wilma is a feminine given name of Germanic origin, a short form of Wilhelmina, which itself derives from the male name Wilhelm, combining "wil" (will or desire) and "helm" (helmet or protection) to mean "resolute protector." The name gained popularity across English-speaking countries in the early 20th century. Its most famous bearer is probably Wilma Rudolph, the American sprinter who overcame polio to win three gold medals at the 1960 Rome Olympics, becoming an icon of athletic triumph over adversity. In the world of fiction, Wilma Flintstone is the red-haired matriarch of the animated Stone Age family. There are no major place connections, though a number of streets and small parks bear the name. Interestingly, in Scotland, Wilma saw peak popularity in the 1950s and 60s, and while less common today, it retains a warm, vintage charm.