Emma

Girls

Best rank #1 (2014) · ranked in 18 years

With a peak of #1 in 2014, Emma appeared in the rankings across 2008-2025.

It held near #7 between 2008 and 2025.

As of the latest count (2025), Emma sits at #7.

In 2014, 20,982 babies were given the name Emma.

Emma was most popular around 2014, making it characteristic of the 2010s generation.

Rank by year

11020200820172025
  1. 2025712,768
  2. 2024513,541
  3. 2023513,607
  4. 2022514,527
  5. 2021415,563
  6. 2020415,742
  7. 2019417,237
  8. 2018218,833
  9. 2017119,887
  10. 2016119,568
  11. 2015120,497
  12. 2014120,982
  13. 2013220,991
  14. 2012220,996
  15. 2011518,858
  16. 2010717,383
  17. 2009817,930
  18. 2008718,845

Similar names

If Emma is on your shortlist, Ethan, Elijah, Emily are worth a look too, given the similar sound and comparable popularity trends.

Origin & meaning

Emma derives from the Germanic element ermen or irmin, meaning "whole" or "universal," and was originally a short form of longer Germanic names beginning with that root. It was carried into England by Emma of Normandy, queen consort in the 11th century.

Notable people named Emma

  • Emma Watson - actress known for the Harry Potter film series
  • Emma Stone - Academy Award-winning actress
  • Emma Thompson - Academy Award-winning actress and screenwriter

Emma has ranked among the most popular given names for girls in the United States for much of the 21st century, frequently placing in the top ten on Social Security Administration name lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is Emma a popular name?
Emma reached a best rank of #1 in 2014 and has charted in 18 years.
Where does Emma rank now?
In the most recent data (2025), Emma ranks #7.
Is Emma a boy or girl name?
It is recorded primarily as a girls' name.
When was Emma most popular?
Emma peaked around 2014.

Source: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) - Popular Baby Names (national)