Meaning, origin, history
Emily is a name of English origin and it means "rival" or "strive". It comes from the Middle English name Aemilia, which itself derived from the Latin word 'aemulus', meaning rival or competitor.
The name Emily gained popularity during the Victorian era in England due to its usage in poetry and literature. One notable example is Emily Brontë, who wrote the novel "Wuthering Heights". The name also appears in the works of Shakespeare and other prominent authors.
Over time, Emily has become a popular choice for parents around the world. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, Emily was one of the top 20 most popular girl's names between 1996 and 2017, peaking at number 8 in 2009.
Despite its meaning related to competition, Emily is generally considered a feminine name with a soft and elegant sound. Its simplicity makes it appealing as a traditional yet timeless choice for parents looking for a popular yet distinctive name for their daughters.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Emily since 1880
Total births
1,789
Total since 1880
Peak year
2004
120 births
in 2023
9
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-25%
↘
vs previous 5 years