Germanic origin · introduced to England by the Normans and gained popularity in the 18th century
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#2US 2023
13.6kBirths / yr
→Stable
707.3kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 90 years in top 1001% of births at peak
How to pronounce Emma
EM·uh
/ˈɛm.ə/ · stress on EM · 2 syllables
“whole”
Germanic origin · Girl name
What does Emma mean and where does it come from?
The name Emma has its origins in the Germanic word 'ermen', meaning 'whole' or 'universal'. It was introduced to England by the Normans and gained popularity in the 18th century. The name has been borne by various notable people, including the famous English novelist Jane Austen's character Emma Woo
Cultural significance
Emma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of german.
Holding steady — currently #2 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#2 · Top 0.01%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2
13,579
stable · -6% births
2022
#2
14,498
stable · -7% births
2021
#2
15,543
stable
2020
#2
15,581
▼ down 1 · -24% births
2015
#1
20,455
▲ up 2 · +18% births
2010
#3
17,345
▼ down 1 · -15% births
2005
#2
20,344
▲ up 15 · +62% births
2000
#17
12,552
▲ up 50 · +149% births
1995
#67
5,045
▲ up 63 · +109% births
1990
#130
2,418
▲ up 133 · +156% births
1985
#263
945
▲ up 153 · +78% births
1980
#416
532
▲ up 5 · +11% births
1975
#421
478
▲ up 1 · -9% births
1970
#422
527
▼ down 63 · -18% births
1965
#359
639
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Emma
2015Rank #1
20,455
#120
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Emma
Emma has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It reached the #1 spot in 2008, making it the most popular girl name in America that year. Over 707K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3 in 1880 to #2 in 2023. Emma is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Emma means "German" — a name rooted in Germanic 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 Emma?
Emma is currently ranked #2 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 Emma?
Emma originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic 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 Emma?
Emma is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Emma more of a girl or boy name?
Emma is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Emma
For a sister
Emma & Amelia♡
Emma & Lukas♡
Emma & Annalise♡
Emma & Lorelai♡
For a brother
Emma & Lukas♡
Emma & Kassel♡
Emma & Niclaus♡
Emma & Reichen♡
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