Emma vs Karissa

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
Karissa Rank #2,663

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #2663 for Karissa.

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

Karissa ___

  • Karissa Lynn
  • Karissa Marie
  • Karissa Anne
  • Karissa Grace
  • Karissa Nicole
  • Karissa Dawn

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Karissa

Marissa Brianna Ryan Tyler Melissa

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 Karissa more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Karissa at #2663 in the United States.

What do Emma and Karissa mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Karissa means "grace, kindness" (Greek origin).

Are Emma and Karissa boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Karissa is primarily a girl name.

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