Emma vs Esther

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
Full profile for Emma →

Popularity Comparison

Emma Rank #2
Esther Rank #131

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #131 for Esther.

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

Esther ___

  • Esther Rose
  • Esther Jane
  • Esther Mae
  • Esther Grace
  • Esther Violet
  • Esther Pearl

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Esther

Ruth Agnes Sylvia Clement Jasper

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 Esther more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Esther at #131 in the United States.

What do Emma and Esther mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Esther means "star" (Persian origin).

Are Emma and Esther boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Esther is primarily a girl name.

More Comparisons

Esther vs Emma Emma vs Emilia Emma vs Myla Emma vs Annie Emma vs Anna
← Full profile: Emma ← Full profile: Esther Browse all baby names