Declining since 2020, #769 for boys today.
Popularity of Emmitt since 1880
Babies named Emmitt per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 111 |
| 1890s | 139 |
| 1900s | 214 |
| 1910s | 655 |
| 1920s | 1,000 |
| 1930s | 788 |
| 1940s | 849 |
| 1950s | 860 |
| 1960s | 560 |
| 1970s | 392 |
| 1980s | 259 |
| 1990s | 522 |
| 2000s | 787 |
| 2010s | 4,386 |
| 2020s | 2,716 |
Meaning & origin
Emmitt has a long but modest history in American naming, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its usage has ebbed and flowed over the decades, with a notable peak in popularity in 2020, when it reached its highest rank. Since then, the name has entered a gradual decline, though it remains a recognizable choice, particularly in states like Mississippi, Indiana, and Missouri, where it has historically seen stronger regional use. The name's appeal likely stems from its friendly, straightforward sound and its connection to the more common Emmett, while the 'tt' ending gives it a distinctive, traditional feel. Parents drawn to Emmitt appreciate its blend of familiarity and uniqueness, along with its potential to honor family surnames.
The name Emmitt is a variant of Emmett, which itself has two main proposed origins. One derivation traces it to the Germanic element 'ermen', meaning 'whole' or 'universal', often seen in names like Herman. Another possibility is that Emmett originated as a medieval diminutive of the name Emma, which comes from the Germanic word 'ermen'. The surname Emmett has been in use since the Middle Ages, and Emmitt as a first name gained popularity in the United States in the late 19th century.
Where Emmitt is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys 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, Emmy
Sibling names for Emmitt
Names that share Emmitt's style, for a brother or sister.
