Emma is a feminine given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old Germanic word "ermen" which means "whole" or "universal". It is also related to the Old Norse name "Ænmaðr", meaning "entire" or "unharmed".
The name Emma has been used throughout history and has been borne by several notable figures. One of the most famous Emmas was Queen Emma of Normandy, who was the wife of King Æthelred the Unready of England and later married Canute the Great after her husband's death. She played a significant role in politics during the 11th century and was known for her intelligence and political acumen.
Another notable Emma was Emma, Lady Hamilton, an English actress and courtesan who rose to fame in the late 18th century. She is remembered for her influential relationship with Lord Horatio Nelson, one of Britain's most celebrated naval heroes.
In literature, the name Emma has been popularized by several works. Charlotte Brontë's novel "Jane Eyre" features a character named Emma Watson, who is described as being beautiful and accomplished. Additionally, Jane Austen's novel "Emma" tells the story of Emma Woodhouse, a wealthy young woman known for her interfering ways.
Today, Emma remains a popular choice for girls' names, ranking consistently in the top 100 most popular names in many countries around the world. Its meaning, "whole" or "universal", reflects its enduring appeal and timelessness.
Based on the statistics provided, the popularity of the name Ema has varied over time in the United States. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of babies named Ema each year fluctuated between 5 and 28 births per year. The most popular years for the name during this period were 1927 and 1928, with 28 births each year.
However, it is important to note that these numbers may not be representative of the true popularity of the name Ema during this time period due to factors such as underreporting or changes in naming practices. Additionally, it's worth noting that the overall number of births in the United States varied significantly over this time period, which could have impacted the relative popularity of any given name.
In more recent years, the name Ema has seen a resurgence in popularity. Between 2000 and 2023, there were an average of 145 births per year with the name Ema, with peaks as high as 161 births in 2011. This trend suggests that the name Ema is currently more popular than it has been at any other time since record-keeping began.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Ema has varied over time, it has seen a significant increase in recent years and continues to be chosen for babies born in the United States today.