Emma vs Josie

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
Josie Rank #88

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #88 for Josie.

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

Josie ___

  • Josie Mae
  • Josie Rose
  • Josie Kate
  • Josie Jane
  • Josie Claire
  • Josie Faye

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Josie

Daisy Rosie Nellie Archie Henry

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 Josie more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Josie at #88 in the United States.

What do Emma and Josie mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Josie means "God will increase" (Hebrew origin).

Are Emma and Josie boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Josie is primarily a girl name.

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