Emily
Meaning
“Industrious, eager”
Popularity
Ranked #18 for girls in 2025
Based on Social Security Administration data
Similar Girl Names Starting with E
More Latin Names
About the Name Emily
Emily is a beautiful Latin girl name that means “Industrious, eager”. This name has been consistently popular among parents looking for a name for their daughter.
Emily derives from the Latin Aemilia, the feminine form of the Roman family name Aemilius, which may mean 'rival' or 'industrious.' The name has been popular in English-speaking countries since the 18th century, partly due to poet Emily Dickinson and the Bronte sisters' novel 'Wuthering Heights' featuring Emily Bronte.
Personality Traits Associated with Emily
Emilys are typically described as intelligent, creative, and gentle. The name suggests someone who is both industrious and artistic, with a sensitive and thoughtful nature. Those named Emily often display literary or artistic talents and deep emotional intelligence.
Famous People Named Emily
- •Emily Dickinson - Renowned American poet
- •Emily Bronte - Author of 'Wuthering Heights'
- •Emily Blunt - British actress
- •Emily Ratajkowski - Model and actress
- •Emily Watson - British actress
Nicknames for Emily
Cultural Significance of Emily
Emily Dickinson and Emily Bronte represent the name's literary heritage. The name dominated baby name charts in the 1990s and 2000s, representing a generation of girls while maintaining its timeless elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emily
What does the name Emily mean?
The name Emily means “Industrious, eager”. It is of Latin origin and is traditionally used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Emily?
Emily is ranked #18 in popularity for girl names in the United States. It remains a very popular choice for parents.
Is Emily a boy or girl name?
Emily is traditionally a girl name. While names can be used for any gender, Emily is most commonly given to girls.
What are common nicknames for Emily?
Common nicknames for Emily include Em, Emmy, Emmie, and Millie. These shortened forms provide casual alternatives while maintaining the essence of the full name.
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