Meaning and Origin of: Emma

The name Emma is derived from the Germanic word ermen meaning whole or universal
Emma baby name

Girl name origins & meanings

  • German : All-embracing

What does Emma mean and stand for?

The name Emma is derived from the Germanic word ermen meaning whole or universal, and was originally a shortened version of a variety of Germanic names that began with ermen. It was first popularized or introduced by Emma of Normandy.

Syllables: 2

Girl name variations

Family name origins & meanings

  • Italian (Sicily) : apparently from the female personal name Emma (see Emm).

Famous people with this first name

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Popularity

According to Social Security Administration data, Emma has been consistently popular, placing in the top 5 for the past two decades.

However, it is the 60th most popular name on FamilyEducation.com.

According to Google search data analysis, in the last five years Emma was at its peak popularity in February 2017.

While the name Emma has been around for generations (Emma by Jane Austen is a classic novel which later inspired the 1995 film Clueless), Emma may have seen a recent rise in popularity thanks to stars like Emma Watson, an English actress who portrays Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, Emma Stone, Emma Thompson, Emma Roberts, and popular YouTuber Emma Chamberlain.

Where Is It Popular?

Nicknames for Emma

  • Emmy
  • Em
  • Ems

Pairs well with these middle names