The name Alma has its roots in the Latin language, originating from the word "almus" which means "nourishing" or "kind." This name was commonly used in various parts of Europe during the Middle Ages.

Alma was a relatively popular name in ancient Rome, and it can be found mentioned in several historical texts and records from that period. It was often used as a reference to the nurturing qualities of a mother or a caring figure.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Alma can be traced back to the 4th century, when St. Alma, a Christian martyr, was mentioned in the writings of St. Ambrose, a bishop of Milan. This early association with religious figures contributed to the name's popularity among Christian communities.

In the 12th century, Alma was the name of a renowned Benedictine abbess who lived in Germany. She is known for her influential role in the religious and intellectual spheres of her time.

During the Renaissance period, the name Alma gained popularity among artists and scholars. One notable figure was Alma Tadema, a Dutch-British painter born in 1836, who was famous for his depictions of classical antiquity.

In the 19th century, Alma was the name of a character in Alfred, Lord Tennyson's poem "The Princess," which explored themes of women's education and gender roles. This literary reference further contributed to the name's cultural significance.

Another famous Alma was Alma Mahler, an Austrian composer and socialite born in 1879. She was the wife of renowned composer Gustav Mahler and had a significant influence on the cultural and artistic circles of her time.

In the 20th century, Alma Reville, born in 1899, was a renowned British film producer and the wife of Alfred Hitchcock. She played a crucial role in the development of many of Hitchcock's iconic films.