Zelma sits next to 4 phonetic neighbors — Selma, Thelma, and Velma are the closest matches by sound. Most share Zelma's German-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"helmet of God, divine protection"
"from Milan, gracious"
"ever powerful"
"the ray of light"
"father's joy"
"grace, favor"
"white wave"
"people of Ciar"
"from Wales, land of compatriots"
"goddess Savitri, divine solar figure"
"chalice, holy cup"
"fragrant; place of fragrance"
"shining, luminous"
"told by God"
"supplanter (inherited from James)"
"we are building (Siya root)"
"consecrated, increased"
"purpose, intention"
"God is gracious (feminine form)"
"industrious, hardworking"
"honest, truthful"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Zelma — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Germanic origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Zelma.
Rhythm: Zelma is a 2-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.