Revision History

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12/7/2022, 9:35 PM Mike C update #113
4/25/2021, 10:07 PM Mike C update #110
2/28/2019, 2:08 PM Mike C update #102
12/3/2014, 12:28 AM Mike C update #89
2/12/2007, 1:03 AM Mike C earliest recorded revision

Gender Masculine
Pronounced Pron. /ˈel.mo/(Italian) /ˈɛl.moʊ/(English)

Meaning & History

Originally a short form of names ending with the Old German element helm meaning "helmet, protection", such as Guglielmo or Anselmo. It is also a derivative of Erasmus, via the old Italian short form Ermo. Saint Elmo, also known as Saint Erasmus, was a 4th-century martyr who is the patron of sailors. Saint Elmo's fire is said to be a sign of his protection.

In the English-speaking world this name is now associated with a red muppet character from the children's television program Sesame Street.