Emma vs Esme

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Emma

Girl #2 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"strength"

Origin: Germanic

Cultural Roots

English German French

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#2
Total SSA Count
13,485
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Em, Emmy

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Emma Rank #2
Esme Rank #344

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #344 for Esme.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Emma ___

  • Emma Rose
  • Emma Grace
  • Emma Jane
  • Emma Louise
  • Emma Kate
  • Emma Marie

Esme ___

  • Esme Rose
  • Esme Pearl
  • Esme Violet
  • Esme Gray
  • Esme Wren
  • Esme June

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Esme

Soren Jasper Ottilie Wren Felix

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Emma or Esme more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Esme at #344 in the United States.

What do Emma and Esme mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Esme means "beloved, esteemed" (French origin).

Are Emma and Esme boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Esme is primarily a girl name.

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