Sharmaine is a variant of Charmaine. Both names are ultimately derived from Charmian, a form of Charmion, a Greek name meaning "delight," from charma. Charmion was one of Cleopatra's servants, as recorded by Plutarch. Shakespeare used the name Charmian in his play Antony and Cleopatra (1606).
Etymology and History
The name Charmaine first appeared in the 1924 play What Price Glory, which became a popular film in 1926. It may be a combination of Charmian or the English word charm with the suffix from Lorraine. From Charmaine, the variant Sharmaine emerged, possibly influenced by the initial 'Sh' sound common in names like Sharon or Sharlene.
Notable Bearers
While no widely known historical figures bear the name Sharmaine, it has been used in various English-speaking countries. The Wiktionary entry notes use in Cebuano, reflecting its spread to the Philippines.
Related Names
- Charmaine (the direct variant)
- Charmian (the Shakespearean form)
- Sharmila (an Indian name with a similar sound)
- Meaning: Delight (ultimate root)
- Origin: Greek, via English coinage
- Type: First name, feminine
- Usage Regions: English-speaking countries, Philippines
Sources: Wiktionary — Sharmaine