The name Emerson has its roots in the Old English language. It originated as a surname derived from the combination of two elements: "emer" meaning "brave" or "powerful", and "sunu" meaning "son". The name initially meant "son of Emer" or "son of the brave one".

The earliest recorded use of the name Emerson can be traced back to the 12th century in England. It was initially a surname but gradually transitioned into being used as a given name as well. The first known person to bear the name Emerson as a first name was Emerson Waldo, born in 1685 in Concord, Massachusetts.

One of the most notable figures in history with the name Emerson is Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882), an American essayist, philosopher, and poet. He was a leading figure in the Transcendentalist movement and is renowned for his influential works such as "Nature" and "Self-Reliance".

Another famous Emerson was Emerson Moser (1859-1925), an American inventor who patented numerous inventions, including the rubber heel for shoes. The Moser Hotel in Richmond, Indiana, was named after him.

In the realm of sports, Emerson Fittipaldi (born 1946) is a Brazilian former racing driver who won the Formula One World Championship in 1972 and 1974.

Emerson Boozer (born 1950) is an American former professional football player who played as a running back for the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins in the National Football League (NFL).

Emerson Lake & Palmer (ELP) was a highly influential English progressive rock supergroup formed in 1970, consisting of Keith Emerson (1944-2016), Greg Lake (1947-2016), and Carl Palmer. They were known for their spectacular live performances and pioneering the use of synthesizers in rock music.

While the name Emerson has its origins in Old English, it has gained widespread popularity across various cultures and regions, with notable individuals bearing the name throughout history, contributing to its enduring legacy.