Emmett

What does the baby name Emmett mean? Learn about what Emmett means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Emmett - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Emmett
E-M-M-E-T-T, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Emmett
EM-it
EM mit
Meaning of Emmett
Industrious, entire, universal man, strong.
Origin of Emmett
The name 'Emmett' originates from England and is derived from the Old English word 'emete', which means 'ant'. In the 19th century, it started to be used as a given name for boys. While its exact origins are not well-documented, it is believed to have been influenced by surnames that were derived from occupations, such as 'emmett', which referred to a person who caught ants for medicinal purposes.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Emmett
Emmet
Popularity of Emmett
The popularity of the name 'Emmett' has fluctuated over time. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was moderately popular, but experienced a decline in usage during the mid-20th century. However, in recent years, the name has seen a resurgence in popularity. In 2020, it ranked as the 137th most popular name for boys in the United States, according to the Social Security Administration.
Emmett currently has 196 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Jimmy is slightly more popular than Emmett.

Etymology of Emmett

The etymology of the name 'Emmett' can be traced back to Old English. As mentioned earlier, it is derived from the word 'emete', which means 'ant'. The connection between the name and its meaning is not immediately clear, but it is believed to have been influenced by the idea of industriousness and hard work associated with ants. The name may have also been influenced by surnames that were derived from occupations, as mentioned previously.

Cultural Significance of Emmett

While the name 'Emmett' does not hold significant cultural associations in general, it does have a specific cultural context in American history. 'Emmett' Till was a young African American boy who was tragically murdered in Mississippi in 1955. His death became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement, as it shed light on the deep-rooted racism and injustice prevalent at the time. The name 'Emmett', in this context, symbolizes the fight for racial equality and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice.