Emma vs Gillian

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
Gillian Rank #3,126

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #3126 for Gillian.

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

Gillian ___

  • Gillian Rose
  • Gillian Anne
  • Gillian Claire
  • Gillian Marie
  • Gillian Hope
  • Gillian Grace

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Gillian

Alison Sheila Colin Duncan Fiona

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 Gillian more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Gillian at #3126 in the United States.

What do Emma and Gillian mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Gillian means "youthful" (Latin origin).

Are Emma and Gillian boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Gillian is primarily a girl name.

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← Full profile: Emma ← Full profile: Gillian Browse all baby names