Emsley
2025 SSA
Below 5 births
About Emsley
Emsley is a delicate feminine name with English origins, historically derived from a surname that referred to a woodland clearing or meadow of elm trees. This nature-inspired name combines the popular "Em-" prefix found in classics like Emma and Emily with a distinctive ending, giving it both familiarity and uniqueness. Emsley has gained notable popularity in the 21st century as parents seek alternatives to more common names while maintaining a traditional sound. The name fits with contemporary trends favoring surname-style first names and nature themes. With its soft consonants and lyrical quality, Emsley conveys a gentle elegance with subtle pastoral associations. The name offers versatility, suitable from childhood through adulthood, with potential nicknames including Emmy or Lee.
Emsley is also given to boys.
Pronounced EMZ-lee.
As of October 2026, Emsley ranked #4548 for boys in US births in 1924 and #3666 for girls in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #4104 for boys in 1916 and #2565 for girls in 2015.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · boys | Births · boys | US rank · girls | Births · girls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | — | 0 | #2,594 | 68 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | #2,565 | 70 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | #3,073 | 54 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | #3,106 | 52 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | #2,938 | 56 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | #3,349 | 47 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | #3,352 | 46 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | #4,506 | 31 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | #4,677 | 29 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | #3,285 | 48 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | #3,666 | 41 |
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