Skip to content

Name meaning & originEmilia

/eh-MEE-lee-ah/

Make a name keepsake

Emilia is a Latin baby name pronounced /eh-MEE-lee-ah/. The name traditionally signifies a person who is industrious, striving, or eager.

Share this name

Meaning of Emilia

The name traditionally signifies a person who is industrious, striving, or eager.

Emilia is derived from the Latin family name Aemilius, which stems from the word 'aemulus'. This root implies a sense of rivalry, not in a negative way, but in the context of emulating excellence or excelling through effort. It has historical roots in the Roman Republic as one of the most influential patrician families.

Origin
Latin
Pronunciation
/eh-MEE-lee-ah/

Cultural background

It is widely popular across Europe, particularly in Italy, Spain, Poland, and Scandinavian countries, as well as English-speaking nations. It often appeals to parents seeking a classic alternative to the name Emily.

Variations & nicknames

  • Amelia
  • Emely
  • Emmy
  • Mila
  • Emilie
  • Aemilia

Famous people named Emilia

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Emilia Clarke

    British actress famous for her role as Daenerys Targaryen

    Film · 21st Century

  • Emilia Pardo Bazán

    Spanish noblewoman and prolific novelist

    Literature · 19th Century

  • Emilia Wickstead

    New Zealand-born fashion designer based in London

    Fashion · 21st Century

  • Emilia

    A central character in William Shakespeare's tragedy Othello

    Literature · 17th Century

  • Emilia Fox

    English actress known for her role in Silent Witness

    Film · 21st Century

Frequently asked about Emilia

Is Emilia the same as Amelia?
While they sound similar, they have different origins; Emilia comes from the Latin 'Aemilius', whereas Amelia comes from the Germanic 'Amala'.
What are common nicknames for Emilia?
Common nicknames include Emmy, Mia, Mila, Lia, and Millie.
Is Emilia a vintage name?
Yes, it has been in use since the Roman era and saw significant usage in the 18th and 19th centuries before its modern revival.

Love Emilia? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Latin names each week — free, no spam.

By signing up you agree to get these name emails. We use your email only for them; unsubscribe any time from privacy requests. See our privacy policy. 18+ only.

Compare Emilia with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Latin names

See all Latin names