MallowbyNames

Emmeline

EM-uh-leen · Of debated origin; possibly from the Germanic element 'ermen' meaning 'whole, universal' or a diminutive of Emma.

2025 rank (girls)
#922
Babies named in 2025
284
Peak popularity
2017
2025 frequency
1 in 5,659 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 1985

Rising since 1985, #922 for girls today.

Popularity of Emmeline since 1888

Babies named Emmeline per year in U.S. Social Security records.

123247370192019602000Most births 2017Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1880s5
1890s6
1900s31
1910s91
1920s99
1930s8
1940s7
1950s6
1960s18
1970s68
1980s174
1990s354
2000s694
2010s2,862
2020s1,729

Meaning & origin

Emmeline is a name that combines Old World charm with modern revival. First recorded in the United States in 1888, it reached its peak popularity so far in 2017. While not common, it is used steadily, currently ranking 922nd with approximately 1 in 5,659 baby girls receiving the name in 2025. Its use has been rising since 1985, particularly in states like Idaho, Utah, and Colorado, reflecting a preference for vintage-sounding names in those regions. The name's etymology is debated but ties to Germanic roots, and its soft yet strong sound has made it a favored choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet classic name. Emmeline's resurgence aligns with broader trends toward 19th-century names, and its variety of nicknames adds to its appeal.

Emmeline is an Old French diminutive of the Germanic name Ermentrude, which combines the elements 'ermen' (whole, universal) and 'trud' (strength). It was introduced to England by the Normans and has been used since the Middle Ages, experiencing a revival in the 19th century. The spelling and pronunciation have varied over time, with forms like Emeline and Emlyn.

Where Emmeline 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.

2020s
Fewermore per 100k girlstoo few births

Emmeline” around the world

Where Emmeline lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.

  • France

    5

    babies in 2024

  • Ireland

    5

    babies in 2025

Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland).

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Emmy, Emmie, Emma, Lina

Variants: Emeline, Emlyn, Emaline

Sibling names for Emmeline

Names that share Emmeline's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

E is for Emmeline, our favorite little girl.

E is for Emmeline…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Emmeline's letter becomes Emmeline's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Emmeline's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Emmeline mean?
The meaning is debated; it may derive from the Germanic element 'ermen' meaning 'whole' or 'universal', or it may be a diminutive of Emma, meaning 'universal'.
How popular is the name Emmeline?
As of the latest data in 2025, Emmeline ranked 922nd in the United States, with about 1 in 5,659 girls given this name. Its popularity has been rising since the mid-1980s.
Is Emmeline a girl's name?
Yes, Emmeline is almost exclusively used as a name for girls.