What does Emese mean and where does it come from?
Emese is a traditional Hungarian name derived from the Old Hungarian word 'eme', meaning mother. It is often associated with the legendary mother of the Hungarian tribes, thus adding historical significance to its use. Although it is not as commonly used today, it still holds cultural value within H
Cultural significance
Emese has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hungary-speaking communities, where it reflects values of mother.
Peak popularity
Reached #7679 in 1964 — currently #1196 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Hungary-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Emese?
Emese works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Emese Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Emese Rose
Floral · soft ending
Emese Mae
Sweet · timeless
Emese Claire
French influence · crisp
Emese Jane
Literary · strong
Emese Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Emese right now?
Holding steady — currently #1196 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1196 | 1,004 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1201 | 984 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1206 | 954 | ▲ up 12693 · +18980% births |
| 1995 | #13899 | 5 | — |
The story of Emese
Emese is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1964. With 37 total births recorded, Emese remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13899 in 1995 to #1196 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Emese in 1964:
Emese by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 5 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
| 2000s ★ | 11 | |
| 2010s | 11 | |
💎Emese has only 37 total recorded births since 1964 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Emese?
What names sound and feel like Emese?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Emese also consider these
Common questions about the name Emese
What does the name Emese mean?
Emese means "Mother" — a name rooted in Hungary 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 Emese?
Emese is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Emese?
Emese originates from Hungary tradition. Hungary names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Emese a common or rare name?
Emese is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Emese?
Emese naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.