Find out how popular the first name Emoni has been for the last 32 years (from 1992 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Emoni by gender

Based on the last 32 years of data, Emoni is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 93% of people named Emoni being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 93 female babies and 16 male babies born with the name Emoni.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 16 baby boys were named Emoni in 2023, despite it being a predominantly female name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Emoni

The name Emoni has its roots in the Igbo language spoken in Nigeria, West Africa. It is believed to have originated in the 15th century or earlier, during the height of the Nri Kingdom, one of the oldest and most influential kingdoms in the region.

Emoni is derived from the Igbo word "emu" meaning "peace" or "tranquility," and "oni" meaning "gift" or "blessing." Together, the name can be interpreted as "a gift of peace" or "a peaceful blessing." This name reflects the cultural values and beliefs of the Igbo people, who place great importance on peace, harmony, and gratitude.

While there are no specific historical references to the name Emoni in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it is considered a traditional Igbo name that has been passed down through generations. The earliest recorded examples of the name can be traced back to the 18th century, when it was commonly given to children born during times of peace or after periods of conflict.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Emoni was Emoni Okere, a renowned Igbo poet and storyteller who lived in the late 18th century. She was renowned for her ability to preserve and pass down the oral traditions and folklore of the Igbo people through her captivating tales and poems.

Another influential figure was Emoni Nwankwo, a prominent Igbo trader and entrepreneur who lived in the early 19th century. She played a crucial role in facilitating trade between different communities and fostering economic growth in the region.

In the 20th century, Emoni Okpara (1920-1995) was a respected Igbo educator and advocate for women's rights. She dedicated her life to empowering women through education and promoting gender equality in Nigeria.

Emoni Obasi (1932-2008) was a renowned Igbo artist and sculptor, known for her intricate wood carvings and sculptures that depicted the rich cultural traditions and daily life of the Igbo people.

More recently, Emoni Bates (born 2004) is a highly talented American basketball player who has gained national recognition for her exceptional skills and potential. Despite her young age, she has already been compared to some of the greatest players in the sport's history.

The name Emoni continues to be popular among the Igbo people and has spread to other parts of Nigeria and beyond, as a reflection of the cultural values and traditions it represents.

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 Emoni was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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