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Irma Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Irma

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name IRMA. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Irma

Gender

Female

Origin

German

Lucky Number

5

Meaning of the Name

Irma is a short form of names beginning with 'Irmin-', meaning 'whole' or 'universal' in Old German. It conveys strength and is associated with the Germanic deity Irmin, symbolizing greatness and power.

Stages of a Female

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

5

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Mercury

Positive Nature

Adventurous, dynamic, curious, and social.

Negative Traits

Restless, impatient, inconsistent, prone to indulgence.

Lucky Colours

Green, white.

Lucky Days

Wednesday.

Lucky Stones

Emerald.

Harmony Numbers

1, 3, 9.

Best Suited Professions

Sales, marketing, travel, entertainment.

What People Like About You

Versatility, charisma, adventurous spirit.

Famous People Named Irma

Irma Grese

Nazi concentration camp guard

Notorious SS guard at Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen concentration camps

Irma Thomas

Singer

Grammy Award-winning soul singer known as the 'Soul Queen of New Orleans'

Irma P. Hall

Actress

NAACP Image Award winner for roles in 'The Ladykillers' and 'Soul Food'

Irma Serrano

Actress and politician

Mexican actress and senator known as 'La Tigresa'

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Irma German/English Irmgard German Irmtraud German Irmelin Scandinavian Irmuska Hungarian Irmã Portuguese

Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.

Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Irma holds profound cultural significance rooted in ancient Germanic traditions. Originally derived from the Old German element 'irmin,' meaning 'whole' or 'universal,' the name connects to powerful mythological concepts. Most significantly, Irma relates to the Irminsul, a sacred pillar worshipped by the Saxons that represented the axis mundi—the cosmic pillar supporting the universe. This connection positions the name within a framework of cosmic order and divine support. Throughout medieval German literature and folklore, names beginning with 'Irm-' were associated with strength and completeness, often given to characters of noble bearing or mythical power. The 19th century Romantic movement revived interest in such names as part of broader cultural nostalgia for medieval Germanic heritage. During this period, Irma became popular across German-speaking regions and eventually spread throughout Europe and the Americas through immigration. The name's journey reflects broader patterns of cultural exchange and the enduring appeal of names with deep mythological roots that convey strength and historical continuity.

Extended Personality Analysis

People named Irma are typically characterized by remarkable inner strength and resilience, qualities that align with the name's warrior goddess origins. They often demonstrate natural leadership abilities and a protective instinct that makes them reliable figures in times of crisis. Their approach to challenges is typically methodical and determined, reflecting the completeness suggested by their name's etymology. While they can appear formidable or intense to strangers, those who know them well appreciate their deep loyalty and nurturing nature. Irma's tend to be practical problem-solvers who maintain their composure under pressure, often becoming the stabilizing force in their social and professional circles. Their strength is balanced by a capacity for deep emotional connections and a strong sense of justice. This combination of traits makes them effective advocates and trusted confidantes, though their high standards can sometimes be misinterpreted as demanding. Overall, the personality associated with Irma represents a harmonious blend of strength and compassion, making individuals with this name both respected and beloved by those in their lives.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary naming practices, Irma occupies an interesting position as a vintage name with strong historical roots that hasn't yet experienced the widespread revival seen with other classic names. Its usage peaked in the early 20th century but declined significantly post-World War II, likely due to its association with the notorious Irma Grese and the general trend toward more modern-sounding names. Currently, the name is most commonly found among older generations in Western countries, though it maintains stronger presence in certain European nations like Germany, Italy, and Hungary. Modern parents who choose the name often appreciate its strength, international recognition, and connection to Germanic heritage. The name's brief, punchy sound aligns with contemporary preferences for shorter names, while its vintage quality fits with the current trend of reviving old-fashioned names. However, its usage remains relatively rare, ranking outside the top 1000 names in the United States and most English-speaking countries. The name's future popularity may depend on whether it follows the revival pattern of other vintage names or remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking strong, historical names with mythological significance.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Irma embodies concepts of strength, protection, and cosmic order through its rich etymological and mythological background. The name's connection to war goddesses represents the protective, fierce aspect of femininity—the capacity to defend and fight for what matters. Meanwhile, its derivation from 'irmin' (whole/universal) symbolizes completeness, integration, and the harmony of opposing forces. The association with the Irminsul pillar adds profound cosmological significance, representing the axis connecting earthly and divine realms, stability amid chaos, and the structural support of existence itself. Metaphorically, Irma represents the pillar of strength within human relationships—the person who remains steadfast during turmoil. The name also carries symbolism related to ancient wisdom and the transmission of cultural heritage across generations. In modern interpretation, Irma symbolizes the integration of strength and nurturing, action and wisdom, making it a name that represents balanced power. These layered symbolic meanings make Irma a name that conveys depth, history, and multifaceted strength beyond its simple phonetic structure.

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