Thelman is a unique and distinctive name of Greek origin, derived from the ancient Greek word "thelma," which means "peril" or "danger." Despite its somewhat ominous meaning, Thelman has been worn by many notable individuals throughout history.
In the Middle Ages, Thelman was a popular given name in France, where it was often used as a diminutive of the Germanic name Adelmann. During this time, Thelman was typically associated with nobility and was borne by several French lords and knights.
One of the most famous bearers of the name Thelman was Saint Thelman, also known as Saint Telm, who lived in the 6th century AD. According to legend, Thelman was a Christian monk from Brittany who was martyred for his faith during the Roman persecution. He is now revered as a saint by both the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.
In more recent times, Thelman has been used as a given name in various parts of the world. In England, it was most commonly used in the 19th century, while in the United States, it has been borne by several notable individuals, including Thelman B. Mattox, a lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Mississippi in the late 19th century.
Today, Thelman remains a rare but memorable name, one that carries with it a rich history and unique meaning. Whether used as a given name or a surname, Thelman is sure to stand out and make a lasting impression.
Thelman is a unique and intriguing name that has seen a varied history of usage in the United States over the years. One particularly notable year for this name was in 1922, when it experienced a spike in popularity with seven births recorded nationwide. This figure represents the total number of newborns given the name Thelman that year across all fifty states.
Despite its peak in 1922, Thelman has not been among the most commonly used names in recent decades. According to data from the Social Security Administration, there were only four boys named Thelman born in the United States in 2020, indicating a significant decrease in usage compared to nearly a century ago.
However, it's important to note that even with fewer occurrences today, each child bearing the name Thelman is special and unique. Statistics can't measure the value of a person's identity or the importance of their name to them and their family.
In conclusion, while Thelman may not be one of the most popular names currently, its historical usage, particularly in 1922, showcases that it has been a part of American naming traditions. It is essential to remember that each name, no matter how common or uncommon, holds value and meaning for those who bear it.