The name Emma is of Germanic origin, and it means “whole” or “universal.” It was a popular name in the Middle Ages and has since been used in various forms throughout Europe. The name Emma can be traced back to the Germanic word “ermen,” which means “whole” or “universal.” In Germanic mythology, it was also the name of a goddess associated with fertility and healing. The name became popular in England in the 11th century, where it was borne by Emma of Normandy, the wife of King Ethelred the Unready and later the wife of King Canute the Great.
The name Emma remained popular throughout the Middle Ages and was used by several other queens and noblewomen throughout Europe. In the 19th century, it experienced a revival in popularity, particularly in English-speaking countries. One notable Emma from this time period was the British novelist Jane Austen’s protagonist in her novel “Emma.”
Today, Emma is a popular name for girls around the world, ranking highly in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Its simple, classic sound and meaning have made it a timeless name that has remained popular for centuries.