Emma
Emma is a feminine name of German origin meaning ‘universal’, ‘whole’, or ‘great’. It derives from the Germanic word ‘ermen’ meaning ‘whole’ or ‘universal’. The name gained widespread popularity thanks to Jane Austen’s novel ‘Emma’ and has maintained its classic, sophisticated charm throughout the centuries.
Popularity of the name Emma in different countries
- Emma Extremely popular in the United States, consistently ranking among the top 5 names for girls for over two decades, frequently at number 1.
- Emma Very common in European countries like France, Italy, and Spain, where it remains a classic and elegant name with strong historical tradition.
- Emma Popular in English-speaking countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, where it has experienced a major resurgence in popularity.
- Emma In Hispanic countries like Mexico and Argentina, it's appreciated for its simplicity and international sound.
- Emma In Brazil and Portugal, it's a well-established name combining European tradition with modernity, maintaining universal appeal.
Variants and similar names to Emma
- Ema (Spanish, Portuguese and Slavic variant)
- Emmeline (More elaborate French and English form)
- Emmy (English and German diminutive)
- Ima (Historical German variant)
- Em (Modern English abbreviated form)
Famous characters named Emma
Books
- Emma Woodhouse – Emma Witty but somewhat meddlesome protagonist who enjoys matchmaking in her rural English community, learning valuable lessons about love and humility.
- Emma Bovary – Madame Bovary Woman dissatisfied with her married life who seeks romance and luxury through extramarital affairs, leading to tragedy.
- Emma Morley – One Day Protagonist we follow for twenty years, showing her evolution from idealistic student to mature woman and her complex relationships.
Anime
- Emma – The Promised Neverland Intelligent and compassionate protagonist who leads the children of Grace Field House orphanage in their escape from being demon food.
- Emma – The Boys Though originally from comics, the character appears in adaptations as a superheroine with growth powers and superhuman strength.
Movies
- Emma Woodhouse – Emma (various adaptations) Wealthy and lively young woman of English high society who plays matchmaker with her friends but fails to recognize her own romantic feelings.
- Emma Swan – Once Upon a Time The Savior destined to break Storybrooke's curse, daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming in the modern world.
TVSeries
- Emma Gilbert – H2O: Just Add Water One of three girls who turn into mermaids after exposure to a full moon in a magical pool, facing challenges of their new powers.
- Emma Pillsbury – Glee Obsessive-compulsive school counselor working at McKinley High, known for her vintage style and romance with Will Schuester.
Videogames
- Emma Emmerich – Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty Younger sister of Hal Emmerich (Otacon), a brilliant engineer who helps Solid Snake and Raiden during the Big Shell mission.
- Emma – Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Elderly physician and prosthetist who aids protagonist Wolf, providing enhancements for his prosthetic arm and valuable advice.
- Emma – Until Dawn One of eight teenagers who must survive the night in a mountain lodge while being hunted by a psychopath and supernatural creatures.
- Emma – The Last of Us Part II Artist and Dina's girlfriend, member of the Jackson community whose art and memory influence the game's emotional narrative.
