Find out how popular the first name Embla has been for the last 5 years (from 2020 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Embla by gender

Based on the last 5 years of data, Embla is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 8 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Embla.

The history of the first name Embla

The name Embla has its roots in Norse mythology and is believed to have originated in the Old Norse language. It is first mentioned in the Prose Edda, a collection of Old Norse literature compiled by the renowned Icelandic scholar and lawspeaker Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century.

According to the Prose Edda, Embla was the first woman created by the gods Odin, Vili, and Ve. She was fashioned from an elm tree, while her male counterpart, Ask, was made from an ash tree. Together, Embla and Ask became the progenitors of the human race, making the name Embla deeply symbolic in Norse mythology.

The name Embla is derived from the Old Norse word "almr," which means "elm." This connection to the elm tree further reinforces the name's mythological significance and its association with the origins of humankind. The name has also been linked to the Old Norse word "emla," meaning "to work hard" or "to strive," suggesting qualities of diligence and perseverance.

In addition to its mythological roots, the name Embla has been recorded in various historical documents and literary works throughout the centuries. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Embla Eriksdotter, a Swedish noblewoman who lived in the 14th century and was married to the Swedish nobleman Erik Magnusson.

Another notable figure with the name Embla was Embla Högqvist, a Swedish writer and feminist who lived from 1812 to 1900. She was a prominent advocate for women's rights and authored several works on the subject, including the novel "Qvinnornas ställning" (The Position of Women).

In the realm of literature, the name Embla has been used by several authors, including the Swedish novelist and playwright August Strindberg, who featured a character named Embla in his play "Drömspelets Dramatis Personae" (The Dream Play's Dramatis Personae), published in 1902.

Furthermore, the name Embla has been recorded in various historical documents and records from Scandinavia and other parts of Europe, reflecting its enduring presence and significance throughout history.

While the name Embla may have gained popularity in recent times due to its unique and mythological origins, its roots can be traced back to the ancient Norse tradition, where it held a profound symbolic meaning as the first woman created by the gods. Its enduring legacy and historical significance make it a name imbued with cultural richness and a deep connection to the origins of humankind.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Embla was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Embla, please contact us.

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