Emily

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

Emily - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Emily
E-M-I-L-Y, is a 5-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Emily
EM-ə-lee
EH mee lee
Meaning of Emily
Industrious, to strive or excel or rival, competitor, rival, flatterer, to strive or rival.
Origin of Emily
The name 'Emily' can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it originated as a feminine form of the Roman family name Aemilius. The name Aemilius itself is derived from the Latin word 'aemulus', meaning 'rival' or 'emulating'. In ancient Rome, the name 'Emily' was associated with qualities such as ambition, competitiveness, and determination.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Emily
Aimil
Amalea
Amalie
Ameline
Amy
Eimile
Em
Ema
Emelda
Emilla
Emmy
Popularity of Emily
'Emily' has been a consistently popular name throughout history. It experienced a notable spike in usage during the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the influence of literature, with authors such as 'Emily' Brontë and 'Emily' Dickinson gaining recognition for their literary works. In recent years, the popularity of the name 'Emily' has slightly declined, but it still remains a popular choice for parents around the world.
Emily currently has 6196 likes, and is the 2nd most liked girl's name. The name Chloe is slightly more popular than Emily.

Etymology of Emily

The etymology of the name 'Emily' can be traced back to the Greek name Amalia, which means 'industrious' or 'hardworking'. This Greek origin adds another layer of meaning to the name, suggesting qualities such as diligence, perseverance, and dedication.

Cultural Significance of Emily

The name 'Emily' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In English literature, the name 'Emily' is often associated with strong and independent female characters. For example, in 'Emily' Brontë 's novel 'Wuthering Heights', the character 'Emily' Brontë portrays a passionate and fiercely independent woman. In Greek mythology, there is also a connection between the name 'Emily' and the goddess Artemis, who was known for her independence and strength.