Its English form was likely influenced by the names Amalia, derived from the Germanic root amal, with meanings "vigorous, active, work", and Emilia, derived from the name of the Roman Aemilia gens.

The name of the gens is likely derived from the Latin word aemulus, meaning rival.

[1] The name has been popular in the Anglosphere and throughout Europe in the 21st century, as well as in other countries.

[2] Its increase in popularity has been attributed to an elegant image and associations with American aviator Amelia Earhart, as well as a similarity in sound to previously popular names such as Amanda, Amy, and Emily, and to having the fashionable ia ending of other popular names Sophia and Olivia.

[4] It was also the fourth most popular name given to girls in Canada that year.