Emma vs Nova

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 →

Nova

Girl #39 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"New"

Origin: Latin

Cultural Roots

English Spanish Italian Portuguese

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#39
Total SSA Count
5,044
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Nov, Novi

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Nova →

Popularity Comparison

Emma Rank #2
Nova Rank #39

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #39 for Nova.

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

Nova ___

  • Nova Rose
  • Nova Grace
  • Nova Mae
  • Nova Jane
  • Nova Claire
  • Nova Jade

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Nova

Luna Aurora Stella Leo Atlas

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 Nova more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Nova at #39 in the United States.

What do Emma and Nova mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Nova means "New" (Latin origin).

Are Emma and Nova boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Nova is primarily a girl name.

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