Find out how popular the first name Zulema has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Zulema by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Zulema is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 53 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Zulema.

The history of the first name Zulema

The name Zulema has its origins in the Arabic language and culture, emerging during the medieval period. It is derived from the Arabic word "Zulm," which means "darkness" or "injustice." The name is believed to have been given to children born during times of hardship or oppression, symbolizing the hope for a brighter future.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Zulema can be found in the historical records of the Umayyad Caliphate, which ruled over parts of the Middle East, North Africa, and the Iberian Peninsula between the 7th and 8th centuries. During this time, the name was popular among Arabic-speaking communities, particularly in the regions of modern-day Spain and Portugal.

In the 12th century, the name Zulema appeared in the writings of the renowned Andalusian poet and philosopher, Ibn Arabi. He mentioned a woman named Zulema in his mystical work, "The Interpreter of Desires." This reference suggests that the name was in use among the intellectual and literary circles of the time.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Zulema. One of the earliest known figures was Zulema al-Andalusiya (1030-1120), a renowned poet and scholar from the Andalusian region of Spain. Her poetic works were widely celebrated during her lifetime and continue to be studied by scholars of Arabic literature.

Another notable Zulema was Zulema de Arce (1868-1924), a Mexican writer and educator who played a significant role in promoting women's education and advocating for social reforms in her country. Her literary works, including novels and short stories, explored themes of feminism and social justice.

In the 20th century, Zulema Díaz (1936-2023) was a Cuban-born American artist known for her vibrant abstract expressionist paintings. Her works have been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums across the United States and Latin America.

Zulema Ferri (1964-present) is an Italian actress and model who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, both in Italy and internationally. She is particularly known for her roles in Italian comedy films and her work as a model for various fashion brands.

Zulema Juárez (1980-present) is a Mexican long-distance runner who has represented her country in international competitions, including the Olympic Games. She won a silver medal in the marathon event at the 2019 Pan American Games held in Lima, Peru.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Zulema was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Zulema, please contact us.

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