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Emma

The name 'Emma' is derived from the Germanic word 'ermen', which means 'whole' or 'universal'. It was introduced to England by Emma of Normandy, a queen consort in the early 11th century. Over the centuries, Emma has become a staple name across English-speaking and European cultures, symbolizing completeness and strength.

IPA: /ˈɛmə/ · Simplified: EH-muh

Female
Germanic
Western European
Europe
classic
elegant
strong
timeless

95/100

Popularity

Stable

10-Year Trend

10

Countries

2018

Peak Year

Meaning of Emma

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name 'Emma' is derived from the Germanic word 'ermen', which means 'whole' or 'universal'. It was introduced to England by Emma of Normandy, a queen consort in the early 11th century. Over the centuries, Emma has become a staple name across English-speaking and European cultures, symbolizing completeness and strength.

Does Emma flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Emma

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈɛmə/ · Simplified: EH-muh

Nicknames for Emma

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Em
Emmy
Emma-Lou
Emmie

Emma name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

98

United States

95

United Kingdom

94

Australia

93

Canada

90

France

90

Germany

89

Sweden

88

Norway

87

Denmark

86

Netherlands

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Emmy

Ema

Emilia

Emmeline

Irma

Names like Emma

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Emma

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Emma is often associated with warmth, intelligence, and charisma. Those named Emma tend to be drawn to creative and intellectual pursuits and exhibit a natural confidence and leadership ability. This name conveys a harmonious balance of tradition and modern sensibility.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Emma

Well-known figures who share this name.

E

Emma Watson

British actress known for her role in the Harry Potter series, active from the early 2000s

E

Emma Stone

American actress and Academy Award winner, active primarily in the 2010s

Frequently asked questions about Emma

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Emma mean?
Here is the meaning behind Emma: The name 'Emma' is derived from the Germanic word 'ermen', which means 'whole' or 'universal'. It was introduced to England by Emma of Normandy, a queen consort in the early 11th century. Over the centuries, Emma has become a staple name across English-speaking and European cultures, symbolizing completeness and strength.
Is Emma a boy or girl name?
Emma is traditionally a girl's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Emma?
Emma scores 95/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2018.
What are good nicknames for Emma?
Popular nicknames for Emma: Em, Emmy, Emma-Lou, Emmie.
What names are similar to Emma?
Names similar to Emma: Ella, Anna, Mia, Ava — close in sound, origin, or style.

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