Emily
Emily is a girl name of English origin meaning “Rival; industrious, eager”, pronounced EM-uh-lee. It ranked #34 in the United States in 2025, given to 5,451 babies, and peaked at #1 in 1996. Common nicknames: Em, Emmy, Millie.
How popular is Emily in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Emily mean, and where does it come from?
Emily is the English form of the Latin Aemilia, feminine of the Roman family name Aemilius, thought to derive from "aemulus," meaning "rival" or "striving to excel." It was introduced to England by the Hanoverians in the 18th century as an anglicization of Amelia, and later popularized by literary figures such as Emily Brontë and Emily Dickinson. Emily was the most popular girls' name in the United States for over a decade beginning in the 1990s and remains a beloved modern classic.
How is Emily used around the world?
Emily is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 9+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Emily?
Famous People Named Emily
- Emily Dickinson — American poet
- Emily Blunt — British actress
- Emily Brontë — English novelist (Wuthering Heights)
Similar Names to Emily
If you like Emily, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Emily
Looking for names that pair well with Emily? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Emily mean?
Emily is a girl name of English origin meaning "Rival; industrious, eager." Emily is the English form of the Latin Aemilia, feminine of the Roman family name Aemilius, thought to derive from "aemulus," meaning "rival" or "striving to excel." It was introduced to England by the Hanoverians in the 18th century as an anglicization of Amelia, and later popularized by literary figures such as Emily Brontë and Emily Dickinson.
How do you pronounce Emily?
Emily is pronounced EM-uh-lee. Common variations include Emilie, Emilee, Emmalee.
Is Emily a girl name?
Yes, Emily is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Em, Emmy, Millie, Emma.