Emilia

Traditionally associated with Latin aemulus, “rival”.

Emilia is a feminine name with Roman roots, traditionally linked to aemulus, meaning “rival”. That familiar gloss comes through the family name Aemilius; Emilia is not simply a Latin word turned into a modern first name. The ending gives the name room to unfold. English ih-MEE-lee-uh has a more separated rhythm than Italian and Spanish /eˈmilja/, where the final sounds run together. The soft m and l can make Emilia feel gentle and graceful, with more movement than the shorter Emily. Emily and French Émilie are relatives; Amelia is a close visual match with a different origin. There is also a literary connection: Emilia is Iago’s wife and Desdemona’s attendant in Shakespeare’s Othello. Alongside its flowing sound, that connection gives the name a classical, slightly theatrical appeal. It may suit someone who enjoys an elaborate ending without wanting a long written name.

Etymology: A feminine form of the Roman family name Aemilius, represented in Latin by Aemilia. Emily belongs to the same name family; the similar-looking Amelia has a different origin.