Noble and famous
Derived from the Old English name Æthelmaer, it combines the elements 'æthel' meaning noble and 'mære' meaning famous. While it was a popular choice in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it has since become a rare vintage choice in the United States.
About 165 boys were named Elmer in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
The iconic hunter and antagonist of Bugs Bunny · Looney Tunes
Prolific American composer and conductor of film scores
The title character of Sinclair Lewis's 1927 novel · Elmer Gantry
Director of the United States Office of War Information during WWII
Pulitzer Prize-winning American playwright
The same feel as Elmer — far less common.
Hidden gems that stand out.
