Meaning of Emily
Rival, eager, industrious
About the Name Emily
Emily is a full, melodic three-syllable feminine name that has traveled across cultures to find a home worldwide, meaning "Rival", and a well-established name worldwide - familiar to teachers, grandparents, and peers without feeling overused. Its meaning "Rival" resonates across different cultural contexts, which is part of why the name appeals to parents from many different backgrounds.
The practical question of how Emily flows with the family surname is worth considering. It sits comfortably in multicultural environments and is easy to pronounce and spell for teachers, peers, and family members from any background. Names that begin with a vowel like 'E' have an open, approachable quality that makes them easy to call across a playground or a boardroom - equally at home in both. Notable bearers of the name include Emily Brontë (Wuthering Heights), Emily Blunt (actress), Emily Dickinson (poet). Parents who choose Emily tend to value a name that is immediately understood, easy to spell, and warm in sound.
Sound & Flow
Emily is a 3-syllable name. Test it with your family surname to hear how it flows. For example: Emily Tan, Emily Lee, or Emily Ng.
Cultural Context
Crosses cultural boundaries easily and is used across Chinese, Eurasian, and mixed-heritage families. Works well with both English and Chinese surnames.
Popularity Through History
See all-time rankings →Rank in California top 25 (1 = most popular). Bars represent years the name charted - Hover for rank.
Name Facts & Trivia
Famous People Named Emily
Prominent figures who share this name - Drawn from global culture, sports, and public life.
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