From the Greek Ἀταλάντη (Atalante) meaning “equal in weight”, derived from ἀτάλαντος (atalantos), a word related to τάλαντον (talanton) meaning “a scale, a balance”. In Greek legend she was a fast-footed maiden who refused to marry anyone who could not beat her in a race. She was eventually defeated by Hippomenes, who dropped three golden apples during the race causing her to stop to pick them up.
From Latin dulcis “sweet” and bella “beautiful”. The usual medieval spelling of this name was Dowsabel, and the Latinized form Dulcibella was revived in the 18th century.
People with the name Selmer have a deep inner desire to use their abilities in leadership, and to have personal independence. They would rather focus on large, important issues, and delegate the details.