The name Vilma has its origins in the Germanic languages, deriving from the Old High German and Old Norse words 'willio' and 'viljan', respectively, meaning 'will' or 'desire'. It emerged as a feminine form of the masculine name Wilhelm or William, which was initially a compound of these root words.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Vilma date back to the Middle Ages, particularly in regions of present-day Germany and Scandinavia. It gained popularity during the medieval period as a name for girls born into noble or aristocratic families.

One of the earliest known historical figures bearing the name Vilma was Vilma of Saxony, a 12th-century German noblewoman and abbess of the Quedlinburg Abbey. She was born in 1116 and lived until 1195, playing a significant role in the religious and cultural life of her time.

In the 16th century, Vilma Terig, a German painter and engraver, gained recognition for her intricate woodcut illustrations and portraits. Born in 1520 in Nuremberg, she was one of the few female artists of her era to achieve notable acclaim.

During the 19th century, Vilma Riquer y Palau, a Spanish writer and feminist, made a name for herself as an advocate for women's rights and education. Born in 1859 in Barcelona, she authored several works promoting gender equality and social reform.

Vilma Banky, a Hungarian-American actress, was a prominent figure in the silent film era of the 1920s. Born Vilma Koncsics in 1898, she starred in numerous popular movies alongside renowned actors like Rudolph Valentino and Ronald Colman.

In the world of literature, Vilma Arija, a Latvian poet and translator, gained recognition for her literary contributions in the 20th century. Born in 1928, her works explored themes of identity, love, and the human experience, earning her critical acclaim both in Latvia and internationally.

These examples demonstrate the diverse historical and cultural backgrounds in which the name Vilma has been present, reflecting its enduring appeal across different regions and time periods.