Meaning, origin, history
Emili is a unique and charming name of Catalan origin. It is the Catalan form of the Latin name Aemilius, which means "rival" or "to excel". The name Aemilius was borne by several important figures in ancient Rome, including Emperor Marcus Aurelius, who was known for his wisdom and virtues.
In Catalonia, Emili has been a popular name for centuries. It is often associated with the region's rich cultural heritage and history. One notable figure named Emili was Emili Pou i Ferrater, a renowned Catalan poet and journalist of the 19th century. He was known for his passionate advocacy of Catalan language and culture during a time when it was under threat from Spanish centralization.
Emili is also a name that has been embraced by other cultures besides Catalonia. In Wales, Emili is considered a unisex name of Welsh origin, meaning "rival". It is often spelled with an 'i' at the end to distinguish it from Emily, which is of English origin and means "to strive" or "to excel".
Today, Emili remains a distinctive and appealing name choice for parents looking for something unique but still classical. Whether you're drawn to its Catalan heritage, its meaning of excellence, or simply love how it sounds, Emili is sure to make a memorable addition to any baby name list.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Emili since 1880
Total births
1,857
Total since 1880
Peak year
2006
112 births
in 2023
20
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-40%
↘
vs previous 5 years