Declining since 2020, #1,373 for girls today.
Popularity of Emani since 1990
Babies named Emani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 974 | 69 |
| 2000s | 1,953 | 132 |
| 2010s | 2,110 | 139 |
| 2020s | 1,292 | 114 |
Meaning & origin
Emani entered U.S. baby name records in 1990 and steadily ascended in popularity, reaching its peak rank in 2019. Since 2020, its usage has been declining among newborn girls. In 2025, it ranked 1,373, with about 1 in every 10,045 girls receiving the name. The name has seen strongest usage in states like Louisiana, South Carolina, and Missouri, reflecting regional preferences. Emani's appeal likely stems from its melodic sound and its connection to the meaningful Swahili word for 'faith,' though its exact origin remains debated.
Emani is a name that emerged in the United States in the late 20th century, first recorded in 1990. It is likely a variant of Imani, which is a Swahili word meaning 'faith' or 'belief,' also used as a given name in African American communities. Alternatively, it may be related to the Arabic name Iman, carrying a similar meaning. The spelling with an initial 'E' may reflect a modern phonetic adaptation.
Where Emani is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Em, Mani, Emi
Sibling names for Emani
Names that share Emani's style, for a brother or sister.
