What does Emerald mean and where does it come from?
The name Emerald is derived from the green gemstone of the same name, which is known for its vibrant color and rarity. The term 'emerald' originates from the Latin word 'esmaralda', which itself comes from the Ancient Greek 'smaragdos'. The name has gained popularity in English-speaking countries in
Cultural significance
Emerald has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in USA-speaking communities, where it reflects values of green gemstone.
Peak popularity
Reached #767 in 1994 — currently #745 in the US.
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Related Reading
USA-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Emerald?
Emerald works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Emerald Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Emerald Rose
Floral · soft ending
Emerald Mae
Sweet · timeless
Emerald Claire
French influence · crisp
Emerald Jane
Literary · strong
Emerald Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Emerald right now?
Rising — up 22 spots — currently #745 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #745 | 377 | ▲ up 22 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #767 | 373 | ▲ up 139 · +25% births |
| 2021 | #906 | 298 | ▲ up 50 · +13% births |
| 2020 | #956 | 264 | ▲ up 295 · +35% births |
| 2015 | #1251 | 195 | ▲ up 452 · +59% births |
| 2010 | #1703 | 123 | ▼ down 437 · -31% births |
| 2005 | #1266 | 177 | ▼ down 300 · -19% births |
| 2000 | #966 | 219 | ▼ down 111 · -4% births |
| 1995 | #855 | 229 | ▲ up 235 · +41% births |
| 1990 | #1090 | 162 | ▲ up 349 · +86% births |
| 1985 | #1439 | 87 | ▲ up 1010 · +123% births |
| 1980 | #2449 | 39 | ▲ up 2452 · +225% births |
| 1975 | #4901 | 12 | ▲ up 583 · +33% births |
| 1970 | #5484 | 9 | ▲ up 463 · +50% births |
| 1965 | #5947 | 6 | — |
The story of Emerald
Emerald entered American naming records in 1904 and has been in use for over 120 years. With 8,106 total births recorded, Emerald remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2175 in 1905 to #745 in 2023. Emerald is used for both genders: 95% female and 5% male.
Names that peaked alongside Emerald in 1994:
Emerald by decade
Emerald peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 23 | |
| 1910s | 150 | |
| 1920s | 197 | |
| 1930s | 54 | |
| 1940s | 35 | |
| 1950s | 42 | |
| 1960s | 47 | |
| 1970s | 157 | |
| 1980s | 954 | |
| 1990s ★ | 2,212 | |
| 2000s | 1,876 | |
| 2010s | 2,085 | |
| 2020s | 274 | |
💎With 8,106 total births, Emerald is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Emerald?
What names sound and feel like Emerald?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Emerald also consider these
How is Emerald written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Emerald
What does the name Emerald mean?
Emerald means "green gemstone" — a name rooted in USA tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Emerald?
Emerald is currently ranked #745 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Emerald have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Emerald?
Emerald originates from USA tradition. USA names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Emerald?
Emerald is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 M ER0 R AH0 L D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Emerald trending right now?
Emerald is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.