The name Emiliano has its origins in the Latin language and culture. It is derived from the Roman family name Aemilius, which is thought to come from the Latin word "aemulus," meaning "rival" or "trying to equal or excel." The name Aemilius was prominent among ancient Roman patrician families.

Emiliano is the Italian form of the Latin name Aemilianus. In the 3rd century AD, there was a Roman emperor named Marcus Aemilius Aemilianus who reigned briefly in 253 AD. He was born in Mauritania and was proclaimed emperor by his troops after the death of Emperor Trebonianus Gallus.

During the Middle Ages, the name Emiliano was used in various parts of Italy, particularly in regions like Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. It gained popularity as a Christian name due to its resemblance to the Latin word "aemulus," which was associated with virtues like striving for excellence and being a rival of sin.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Emiliano is Saint Emiliano Cucullati, an Italian hermit and monk who lived in the 6th century AD. He is venerated as the patron saint of Trevi, a town in the region of Umbria, Italy.

Another notable figure with the name Emiliano was Emiliano Zapata (1879-1919), a leading figure in the Mexican Revolution. He was a revolutionary leader who fought for the rights of peasants and the redistribution of land.

In the literary world, Emiliano García-Wehbi (1915-2002) was an Argentine writer and journalist known for his novels, short stories, and screenplays. He was a prominent figure in the Argentine literary scene of the 20th century.

Emiliano Mercado del Toro (1891-1970) was a Puerto Rican composer and musician who made significant contributions to the development of Puerto Rican danza music. He is considered one of the most influential composers in Puerto Rican musical history.

In the realm of sports, Emiliano Insúa (born 1989) is an Argentine professional footballer who currently plays as a left-back for Estudiantes de La Plata in the Argentine Primera División.