Emma (Surname)

The surname Emma is of Old Germanic origin, derived from the medieval feminine given name "Emma", which in turn is a short form of various names beginning with the element "ermen", meaning whole or universal. This ancient name was brought to England by the Normans following the Conquest of 1066, and it subsequently became a popular name among the English-speaking population.

The surname Emma is considered to be a relatively rare surname in present-day Britain, with only a small number of individuals bearing this name. It is most commonly found in parts of the country with historical connections to Norman settlements, such as areas in the southeast of England.

The use of surnames became widespread in England during the medieval period, as a means of distinguishing individuals in a rapidly growing population. Surnames such as Emma were passed down through generations, often based on a paternal or occupational connection. Over time, variations in spelling and pronunciation have led to different branches of the Emma surname family tree.

In modern times, individuals with the surname Emma can be found across the United Kingdom and beyond, with some descendants tracing their ancestry back to renowned historical figures or prominent families. The surname Emma remains a distinct and intriguing part of Britain's rich genealogical tapestry, reflecting the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that have shaped the nation's history.

There are approximately 321 people named Emma in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Emma.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Calder
  • Claudio
  • Giuseppe
  • Harding
  • James
  • Joseph
  • Michael
  • Millar
  • Perry
  • Smith
  • Thomas
  • Wilton

Female

  • Catherine
  • Charlotte
  • Jade
  • Lucy
  • Mabel
  • Marisa
  • Nicole
  • Rhian
  • Sarah
  • Sophie

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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