What does Emilia mean and where does it come from?
The name Emilia has its roots in Latin ‘Aemilius,’ which signifies ‘a rival’ or ‘to strive.’ It has been popular in various cultures and languages over time, especially throughout Europe and Latin America. The name may have variations, such as Emilia in Italian and Spanish, and Emilija in Slavic cou
Cultural significance
Emilia has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of rival.
Peak popularity
Reached #40 in 2020 — currently #42 in the US.
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Related Reading
Italy-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Emilia?
Emilia works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Emilia Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Emilia Rose
Floral · soft ending
Emilia Mae
Sweet · timeless
Emilia Claire
French influence · crisp
Emilia Jane
Literary · strong
Emilia Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Emilia right now?
Holding steady — currently #42 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #42 | 4,684 | ▲ up 2 |
| 2022 | #44 | 4,684 | ▼ down 4 · -3% births |
| 2021 | #40 | 4,851 | stable · +2% births |
| 2020 | #40 | 4,750 | ▲ up 105 · +114% births |
| 2015 | #145 | 2,218 | ▲ up 203 · +140% births |
| 2010 | #348 | 926 | ▲ up 86 · +30% births |
| 2005 | #434 | 711 | ▲ up 190 · +77% births |
| 2000 | #624 | 402 | ▲ up 265 · +89% births |
| 1995 | #889 | 213 | ▲ up 92 · +13% births |
| 1990 | #981 | 188 | ▲ up 244 · +68% births |
| 1985 | #1225 | 112 | ▼ down 63 · -3% births |
| 1980 | #1162 | 116 | ▲ up 270 · +59% births |
| 1975 | #1432 | 73 | ▼ down 100 · -8% births |
| 1970 | #1332 | 79 | ▲ up 22 · +20% births |
| 1965 | #1354 | 66 | — |
The story of Emilia
Emilia has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #40 in 2020. A total of 45,438 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #598 in 1880 to #42 in 2023. Emilia is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Emilia in 2020:
Emilia by decade
Emilia peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 133 | |
| 1890s | 238 | |
| 1900s | 376 | |
| 1910s | 895 | |
| 1920s | 1,212 | |
| 1930s | 798 | |
| 1940s | 691 | |
| 1950s | 686 | |
| 1960s | 715 | |
| 1970s | 725 | |
| 1980s | 1,359 | |
| 1990s | 2,208 | |
| 2000s | 6,344 | |
| 2010s ★ | 24,303 | |
| 2020s | 4,755 | |
What are good nicknames for Emilia?
ENGLISH
EmEmmieEmmyMillieMilly
What names sound and feel like Emilia?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Emilia also consider these
How is Emilia written in other languages?
Gender variants of Emilia
Common questions about the name Emilia
What does the name Emilia mean?
Emilia means "rival" — a name rooted in Italy 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 Emilia?
Emilia is currently ranked #42 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Emilia?
Emilia originates from Italy tradition. Italy 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 Emilia?
Emilia is a four-syllable name pronounced AH0 M IY1 L IY0 AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Emilia?
Emilia pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Italy heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.