Pamela

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1. Pamela name meaning and origin

Pamela is a feminine given name with literary origins, first appearing in Sir Philip Sidney's romance 'Arcadia' (1593). The name is believed to be Sidney's own creation, formed from the Greek words 'pan' (all) and 'meli' (honey), thus potentially meaning 'all sweetness' or simply ‘honey.’ This etymology reflects the character's sweet and virtuous nature in Sidney's work.

The name gained significant popularity in the 18th century following the publication of Samuel Richardson's novel 'Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded' (1740). This influential work, which tells the story of a servant girl who resists her master's seductions, helped establish the name Pamela as a common given name throughout going forward. In 1954, the name experienced peak popularity in the United States but has seen declining usage since the 1980s, though it remains a recognized classic feminine name with literary associations.

Pamela

References:

2. Pamela name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Pamela

United States

United Kingdom

Pamela is a name primarily used for females in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The name originated from Sir Philip Sidney's 16th-century pastoral romance "Arcadia," where he created the name by combining the Greek words "pan" (all) and "meli" (honey), essentially meaning "all sweetness." Despite its literary origins, the name did not gain widespread popularity until the 20th century.

Though Pamela has occasionally been used as a masculine name in both countries, this usage remains extremely rare. The name experienced its peak popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s, but has since declined in usage among newborns. Notable Pamelas include actress Pamela Anderson and author Pamela Hansford Johnson.

3. Pamela in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

The name Pamela has been used in various forms of fiction, both in classic literature and present media. A list of some prominent characters bearing the name in fictional works is listed below.

Literature:

Pamela Andrews - The young lady of the title of the epistolary novel, she is a pure maidservant, and the letters that elaborate on this topic are how she opposes the sexual advances of her boss, Mr. B.

Films and Television:

Pamela Barnes Ewing - One of the main protagonists in the popular TV series Dallas. She is the former wife of Christopher Ewing and the new lover of John Ross Ewing III.

Pamela Voorhees - A famous antagonist from the ‘Friday the 13th’ franchise. She is the vile mother of the horror icon Jason Voorhees.

Pamela Beesly - One of the characters in the popular sitcom, The Office. She is the receptionist who subsequently marries Jim Halpert.

Pamela Byrnes – A character from the Meet the Parents Trilogy. She is the fiancée and later wife of Greg Focker.

Ursula Pamela Buffay - She is a character from the TV show Friends. The twin sister of the protagonist, Phoebe Buffay.
Pamela Isley - One of Batman’s enemies, with power over the vegetation, poisons, and pheromones.

Video Games:

Pamela Ibis - A character from the Atelier video game series. She is known as a playful and romantic ghost who appears in multiple roles across different games.

4. Celebrities with the Name Pamela

Aside from fiction, the name Pamela has also been carried by real-life figures in entertainment, sports, and music. From actors to athletes, these celebrities have helped keep the name visible in popular culture.

Historical Figures:

Pamela Colman Smith

Pamela Colman Smith was a British-born artist and illustrator, widely recognized for designing the Rider-Waite tarot deck.

Pamela Hansford Johnson

British novelist, playwright, poet, and literary critic, whose famous works include “The Unspeakable Skipton” and “A Summer to Decide.” ”

Contemporary Celebrities:

Pamela Anderson

Canadian-American actress and model who starred in the TV series Baywatch, modeled for Playboy, and is an active advocate for animal rights.

Pamela Adlon

American actress, director, and producer who voices Bobby Hills in King of the Hill and is among the creators of the FX series Better Things.

Pamela Sue Martin

American actress, most famous for her performance in The Nancy Drew Mysteries and Dynasty.

Pamela Gidley

American model and actress who appeared in Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me, Twin Peaks: The Missing Pieces, and The Pretender.

Pamela Stephenson

A New Zealand-born and Australian-raise actress and comedian. Now, she’s a respected clinical psychologist and author who wrote several books like ‘Billy’ and ‘Bravemouth: Living with Billy Connolly.’

Pamela Reed

American actress known for her roles in films such as Kindergarten Cop, Jericho, and Parks and Recreation.

Pamela Frank

A world-renowned American violinist. She is a professor at Curtis Institute who performed with well-acclaimed orchestras, like the New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, and more.

Pamela Franklin

A former British actress, most recognized for her portrayal of Sandy in the movie The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, which earned her several awards and nominations.

5. Variations and nicknames of Pamela

The name Pamela has a rich history dating back to the 16th century when it first appeared in Sir Philip Sidney's pastoral poem 'Arcadia.' Over the centuries, this elegant name has evolved across various languages and cultures, spawning numerous variants. In Italian and French regions, the melodic ‘Paméla’ is used often. Other international variations include the Spanish ‘Pámela’ and Portuguese ‘Pâmela.’ Other spelling variations available are ‘Pamella,’ ‘Pameela,’ ‘Pamelia,’ and ‘Pamelina.’ Meanwhile, ‘Pameelya,’ ‘Pamuel,’ and ‘Pameelah’ are also accepted as Pamela’s variations.

As with many traditional names, Pamela boasts a delightful array of nicknames and diminutives that add warmth and familiarity. The most common nickname is undoubtedly 'Pam,' a short and sweet version that gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century. Other affectionate shortenings include 'Pammy,' 'Mella,' and 'Melly,' which are often used by family and close friends. Some more unique or playful nicknames include 'Pammie,' 'Ela' (derived from the name's ending), ‘Mellie’ (from the middle sounds), and the endearing ‘Pal.’ For children and family members, ‘Pella’ and ‘Map’ are used as terms of endearment.

6. Best name combinations with Pamela

names that pair well with Pamela:

Pamela Rose
Pamela Dianne
Pamela Claire
Pamela Elizabeth
Pamela Theresa
Pamela Melinda
Pamela Louise
Pamela Sophia
Pamela Olivia
Pamela
Pamela Shirley
Pamela Marie
Pamela Celeste
Pamela Katie
Pamela
Pamela Madeline
Pamela Vivian
Pamela Kate
Pamela Vicki
Emily Pamela
Charlotte Pamela
Sophia Pamela
Isabella Pamela
Ophelia Pamela
Katherine Pamela
Abigail Pamela
Maeve Pamela
Camille Pamela
Alexandra Pamela
Ashley Pamela
Mirabel Pamela
Matilda Pamela
Penelope Pamela
Lottie Pamela
Tessa Pamela
Myla Pamela

7. Numerology of Pamela name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

3
The letters P(7) + A(1) + M(4) + E(5) + L(3) + A(1) = 21 = 2+1 = 3
As a number 3, Pamela's life path is oriented toward creativity, self-expression, and communication. This suggests natural abilities in writing, speaking, or artistic endeavors. In careers, she may excel in fields requiring creativity, innovative thinking, and sociability, such as event planning, entertainment, business, and marketing. In relationships, she brings enthusiasm and charm to the relationship, though may sometimes struggle with focus and balance.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

7
The vowels A(1) + E(5) + A(1) = 7 = 7
With a Soul Urge of 7, Pamela has an inner desire for knowledge, understanding, and spirituality. She likely craves intellectual stimulation and time for contemplation. This suggests a natural draw toward research, meditation, or spiritual pursuits. In relationships, she values depth and meaningful connection over superficial interactions, and may need occasional solitude to recharge.

Personality Number:

5
The consonants P(7) + M(4) + L(3) = 14 = 1+4 = 5
With a Personality Number 5, Pamela presents herself as adaptable, social, and freedom-loving. Others perceive her as adventurous. This outward energy suits careers involving sales, travel, or business development, In relationships, she appears faithful and engaging, though may be perceived as restless or inconsistent in her commitments.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

8. Names similar to Pamela

Like Pamela ? What about:

Delia

Benjamin

Damaris

Gianna

Danielle

Bonita

Delaney

Elijah

Carina

Cynithia

Bellamy

Spyros-george

Socrates

Adalyn

Yiorgos

Abigail

Adelyn

Damien

Desiree

Elias

Common sibling names

Sisters

Adeline

Adelyn

Danielle

Adalyn

Agatha

Alexis

Gianna

Genesis

Margaret

Leonie

Alicia

Elena

Madelyn

Iona

Angela

Helena

Delaney

Addison

Abigail

Bellamy

Brothers

Gabriel

Gideon

Addison

Nikolas

Adrian

Nikolai

Bellamy

Benjamin

Theodore

Matthias

Damian

Theodor

Christopher

Elias

Dominic

Damien

Nicolas

Elijah

Leonel

Nicholas

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Pamela

1. Pamela name meaning and origin

References:

2. Pamela name popularity

3. Pamela in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

4. Celebrities with the Name Pamela

5. Variations and nicknames of Pamela

6. Best name combinations with Pamela

names that pair well with Pamela:

7. Numerology of Pamela name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Personality Number:

8. Names similar to Pamela

Like Pamela ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

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Pamela

1. Pamela name meaning and origin

References:

2. Pamela name popularity

3. Pamela in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

4. Celebrities with the Name Pamela

5. Variations and nicknames of Pamela

6. Best name combinations with Pamela

names that pair well with Pamela:

7. Numerology of Pamela name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Personality Number:

8. Names similar to Pamela

Like Pamela ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Pamela

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