Origin, Meaning, And History of Emma
Emma is a feminine name derived from the Germanic word “ermen” or “irmen” meaning “whole” or “universal.” In Greek, Emma meaning “blood” is a variant of Emmanuel. In Hebrew, the name stands for “all containing” or “my God has answered.” Emma can also be linked with Emanuel in the Bible, which means “God with us.” It is a diminutive of Amelia or Emmeline.
The name has been historically linked to the Emma of Normandy, who became the English, Danish, and Norwegian queen being consort to two kings. However, its earliest use can be traced back to the 7th century with Emma of Austrasia, a member of the Austrasian royal family and is sometimes identified as the Emma, who married the Eadbald of Kent. Emma is also considered to be the protector of the scriptures, who helped in the translation of the Book of Mormon. She wrote careful verses and was Joseph’s first scribe.
The name also has strong literary connections and is repeatedly used by noteworthy English authors and poets. Emma Woodhouse is the title character in Jane Austen’s 1815 novel ‘Emma.’ Emma Frost is a character in the American comic books published by ‘Marvel Comics.’ This name also appears in the poem ‘Henry and Emma’ by Matthew Prior, published in 1709. Emma Geller Green appears in the popular television series ‘Friends’ as the baby daughter of Rachel and Ross.
Emma has been the top girl’s name in the US. It also appears in the list of top fashionable names starting with E, along with Ella, Eliza, and Eleanor. Over the last 13 years, parents have chosen this simple yet elegant name for their baby girls in the US.
Emma
How To Pronounce Emma?
Famous People With This Name
- Emma WatsonBritish actress in the Harry Potter series
- Emma StoneAmerican actress and recipient of the Academy Award and the Golden Globe Award.
- Emma ChamberlainAmerican internet personality
- Emma ClineAmerican writer whose first novel, The Girls, was published in 2016
- Emma MalabuyoAmerican gymnast
Emma On The Popularity Chart
Emma isn’t a new name. It started to gain popularity modestly in the 2000s after it was chosen as the moniker in “Friends.”
Popularity Over Time
The name consistently rose in popularity after the year 2000, and in 2021, 15433 babies per million were named Emma. The graph shows its popularity from 1980 until present.
Source: Social Security AdministrationRank Over Time
Emma’s rank skyrocketed to the second position in 2003 and the first position in 2008. See the graph below to have a closer look.
Source: Social Security AdministrationNames With Similar Sound As Emma
If you found the moniker Emma regal, but want to look for a different name with similar sound, here are some interesting and inspiring options.
Popular Sibling Names For Emma
Names With Similar Meaning As Emma
Did you find the meaning of Emma alluring? Here are some other names with similar meanings.
Infographic: Know The Name’s Personality As Per Numerology
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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How To Communicate The Name In Other Languages
In Nautical Flags
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In Sign Language
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In Braille Alphabet
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In Morse Code
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Name Numerology For Emma
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Emma a royal name?
Yes, Emma was used in the past as the name of several women from royal families. Irrespective of its history, girls from non-royal families also carry this name with elan.
2. What nationality is the name Emma?
Emma is a German and old French name. Also, it has references in Latin, from the name Amelia. It has risen in popularity and is now chosen for baby girls in different countries.
3. What personality does Emma represent?
A name doesn’t define the personality of an individual; their behavior and experiences do. That said, since Emma was borne by saints and queens and means universal, it can be regarded as a name representing strength and power.
