Emma vs Shem

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
Shem Rank #6,712

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 vs #6712 for Shem.

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

Shem ___

  • Shem David
  • Shem Eli
  • Shem Aaron
  • Shem Joseph
  • Shem Noah

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Emma

Olivia Charlotte Liam Henry Sophia

If you choose Shem

Ham Japheth Noah Kenan Arpachshad

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 Shem more popular?

Emma is more popular, ranked #2 compared to Shem at #6712 in the United States.

What do Emma and Shem mean?

Emma means "strength" (Germanic origin). Shem means "reputation, legacy" (Hebrew origin).

Are Emma and Shem boy or girl names?

Emma is primarily a girl name. Shem is primarily a boy name.

More Comparisons

Shem vs Emma Emma vs Camila Emma vs Josie Emma vs Aubrey Emma vs Ashley
← Full profile: Emma ← Full profile: Shem Browse all baby names