Ima

Girl Name
Origin:germanic
Pronunciation:/ˈiːmə/

Ima: a female name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful". It derives from the Germanic word "*ermunaz > EMMA".

In Germanic tradition, Ima holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Germanic culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Ima

Quick facts about Ima
OriginGermanic
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

*ermunaz > EMMA

How to Pronounce Ima

Ima is pronounced /ˈiːmə/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Im-a
  2. Say it like: "EEMOOH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Ima is predominantly used in dutch speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

dutch
Name Relationships

Ima is a variant form of Emma, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ima
What does the name Ima mean?
Ima means "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013.". The name comes from *ermunaz > EMMA. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Ima for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Ima's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Ima?
Ima is a germanic name. The name traces back to *ermunaz > EMMA. The name remains closely tied to dutch naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Ima developed as a form of Emma, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Ima a boy or girl name?
Ima is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In germanic tradition, Ima has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Ima?
Ima is pronounced "/ˈiːmə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ima is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Ima can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Ima?
Ima is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ima offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ima's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Ima holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Ima?
Ima is a form of Emma. Over time, Emma developed into several variations, with Ima emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In germanic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Ima might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In dutch, Ima may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Ima commonly used?
Ima is used primarily in dutch naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Ima found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Germanic name element “*ermunaz,” meaning “strong, whole, tall, exalted, whole, great, powerful.” Originally was a short form of Germanic names that began with the element “ermen,” as Ermengarde, Ermentrude, and Ermenegilda. Emma also represents a diminutive vernacular form of Emily, Emmeline, Amelia, or any other name beginning with “em.” Emma of Normandy, one of the first to be called Emma, was a daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, by his second wife, Gunnora. She was queen consort of England by successive marriages: first as the second wife to Æthelred the Unready of England (1002–1016); and then the second wife of Cnut (Canute) the great of Denmark (1017–1035). She acted as regent in Wessex in 1040. The name Emma became popular in the United States later in the 20th-century, reaching the top 100 names for girls in the late 1990s and rising to second place on the popularity chart in 2013." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Ima into their naming traditions. A child named Ima will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Ima is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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