With its soft vowel sounds and French elegance, Esme offers a “Goldilocks” balance; it is familiar enough that no one will stumble over it, yet distinct enough to stand out in a classroom full of Emmas and Ellies. It carries a meaning of “esteem” and “love,” making it a beautiful legacy to bestow upon a child.
Verdict: Esme is a perfect choice for a baby born in 2025. It captures the current trend of “soft vintage” names (like Isla and Hazel) but retains a unique cosmopolitan flair. It is effortlessly chic, historically rich, and suitable for a girl who could grow up to be anything from an artist to a CEO.
Esme Overview
- Meaning: To Esteem, to love.
- Gender: Unisex.
- Origin: French, English.
- Pronunciation: EHZ-may, EHZ-mee.
- Popularity: 379th in the US, 74th in the UK.
- Nicknames: Ez, May, Essie.
- Variations: Esmerelda, Amy.
- Namesakes: Esme Stewart, Esme Creed-Miles.
What Does Esme Mean?
The name Esme is steeped in affection and respect. It derives from the Old French verb esmer, which translates to “to esteem” or “to value.” Over time, the interpretation has broadened to include the meaning “to love” or “beloved.”
This etymology gives the name a beautiful weight; naming a child Esme is a declaration that they are held in high regard and deeply cherished. Unlike names based on physical traits or locations, Esme is a name based on an emotional bond.
Where Does the Name Esme Come From?
Esme is an anglicized version of the French girl name Esmé (historically also spelled Esmée for females). Its history is fascinating because it defies modern naming conventions regarding gender.
The name rose to prominence in the 16th century via the Scottish nobility. The first recorded notable bearer was Esme Stewart, the 1st Duke of Lennox (1542, 1583). Stewart was a French-born nobleman who became a favorite of King James VI of Scotland. Because of this aristocratic lineage, Esme began as a strictly masculine name. It remained a male name, particularly in Scotland and England, well into the early 20th century.
It was not until the mid-20th century that the name began to shift toward female usage, eventually becoming almost exclusively feminine in the United States, though it retains some unisex usage in the UK.
How Popular is the Name Esme?
For much of American history, Esme was virtually nonexistent on the charts. It was a “rare gem” known only to Francophiles and literature lovers. However, that changed dramatically in the 21st century.
According to Social Security Administration data (1), Esme broke into the Top 1000 in 2010. This sudden spark of interest is widely attributed to pop culture, specifically the character Esme Cullen in the Twilight saga. Since then, the name has been on a steady upward trajectory. It is no longer a fleeting trend but has established itself as a modern staple.
While it is a rising star in the US, Esme is a certified hit across the Atlantic. In the United Kingdom, it has long been a favorite, consistently ranking in the Top 100 names for girls (2). It is currently a stylish, well-loved choice that feels timeless rather than temporary.
How Do I Pronounce Esme?
The pronunciation of Esme can vary slightly depending on the region and whether the parents prefer the French or Anglicized style.
- Anglicized: EZ-mee (rhymes with “Sesame”). This is common in the UK.
- French/American: EZ-may. This maintains the flair of the accent mark (é).
It is worth noting that while the strict French spelling requires an accent (Esmé for a boy, Esmée for a girl), most American parents drop the accent mark for simplicity.
Is Esme a Boy or Girl Name?
Today, Esme is predominantly considered a girl’s name, particularly in the United States. However, its history is deeply masculine. If you encounter an “Esme” in a history book from the 1700s or 1800s, it is almost certainly a man. In the modern era, it is viewed as a soft, feminine choice, though it retains a “unisex” label in technical etymology dictionaries.
Variations of Esme
While Esme is short and sweet, there are related names and linguistic variations that carry a similar history or sound.
- Esmé: The original French masculine spelling.
- Esmée: The traditional French feminine spelling.
- Edmé: A rare French variant.
- Ismay: An Old English name often considered a cousin to Esme.
- Esmeralda: While etymologically different (meaning “Emerald”), Esme is often used as a shortened version of this Spanish name.
Nicknames for Esme
Esme is already a short girl name, which leads some parents to believe it doesn’t need a nickname. However, affectionate diminutives inevitably happen. Here are common and creative options:
- Ez: The cool, spunky shorthand.
- Essie: A vintage nickname that feels soft and sweet.
- May: derived from the second syllable.
- Meme: A cute option for toddlers.
- Zee: Focusing on the “Z” sound in the middle.
- Ezza: A playful British-style nickname.
Names Similar to Esme
If you love the vibe of Esme, sophisticated, French-leaning, or vowel-heavy, but aren’t sure it is “the one,” consider these alternatives.
- Isla: Shares the soft, vowel-led sound and Scottish popularity.
- Elodie: Another lyrical French name that feels musical.
- Eloise: A vintage classic with French roots and a spirited vibe.
- Amy: Etymologically related (also meaning “beloved”) but with a 90s feel.
- Iris: A vintage flower name with a similar two-syllable punch.
- Freya: European, mythological, and currently very stylish.
- Ezra: Though a Hebrew boys’ name, it shares the “Ez” beginning and soft ending.
- Maeve: A one-syllable Irish powerhouse that matches Esme’s strength.
- Zoe: Short, zippy, and means “life.”
Middle Names for Esme
Because Esme ends in a vowel sound, it pairs beautifully with names that start with a consonant. It is versatile enough to handle classic, nature, or modern middle names.
Classic & Royal Pairings
These names lean into the aristocratic history of Esme.
Nature-Inspired Pairings
Ground this sophisticated name with something earthy.
Modern & Spunky Pairings
Add a bit of edge to the softness of Esme.
Sibling Names for Esme
Building a sibset around Esme requires finding names that are equally timeless but not stuffy. You want names that feel “curated” rather than common.
For a Brother
Look for soft vintage names or classic French choices.
- Oliver: A classic match that is popular for a reason.
- Enzo: Shares the distinct “z” sound but with Italian flair.
- Eric: A solid, traditional choice that doesn’t compete for attention.
- Charles (Charlie): Gentle and royal, just like Esme.
- Jasper: Matches the vintage, slightly British vibe perfectly.
- Francis: A soft classic that pairs well with the French roots of Esme.
For a Sister
Sister names should share Esme’s elegance without rhyming.
- Chloe: Another Greek/French favorite that is lively and sweet.
- Odette: Deeply French and balletic.
- Renee: A mid-century favorite that is due for a comeback.
- Alice: The ultimate literary pairing for Esme.
- Eva: Short, punchy, and universally recognized.
- Mila: A modern European favorite that flows beautifully.
Famous People Named Esme
While historically rare, there are several notable figures who have carried this distinguished name.
- Esme Stewart (1542, 1583): The 1st Duke of Lennox and the historical figure largely responsible for the name’s introduction to Britain.
- Esme Creed-Miles (born 2000): An English actress known for her starring role in the series Hanna.
- Esme Bianco (born 1982): An English actress and model, famous for her role as Ros in Game of Thrones.
- Esmée Denters (born 1988): A Dutch singer who gained fame as one of the first major YouTube music stars.
- Esme Percy (1887, 1957): A distinguished English actor of the stage and screen.
- Esme Young (born 1949): A celebrated fashion designer and television presenter on The Great British Sewing Bee.
Esme in Pop Culture
Pop culture has been the primary driver of Esme’s recent success. It appears frequently in stories that require a character to be mysterious, intelligent, or high-status.
- Esme Cullen: The matriarch of the vampire family in the Twilight saga. Her character, maternal, kind, and loving, did wonders for the name’s image.
- “For Esmé, with Love and Squalor”: A famous short story by J.D. Salinger. This literary connection makes the name a favorite among book lovers.
- Esme Shelby: A character in the hit series Peaky Blinders. She is the wife of John Shelby and represents the Romani gypsy heritage of the family.
- Esme Squalor: The fashion-obsessed villain in A Series of Unfortunate Events.
- Esme Cuckoos: The telepathic sisters in the X-Men comic book series.
- Esme Weatherwax: Also known as Granny Weatherwax, a powerful witch in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series.
FAQs About the Name Esme
What Names Have the Same Meaning As Esme?
How Unique Is the Name Esme?
In the United States, Esme is a “sweet spot” name. It is popular enough to be recognized (ranking inside the top 400) but rare enough that your child likely won’t share the name with three other kids in their class. It is far more unique than top-ranking names like Olivia or Charlotte. However, if you live in the UK, Esme is a Top 100 hit, meaning it is much more common there.
Does the Name Esme Have Any Religious Significance?
Esme does not have inherent religious significance or biblical roots. It is of French and Old English origin. However, it is often used by Christian families due to its gentle meaning of “beloved,” which resonates with many faith-based values.
Who Is Esme Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox?
Esme Stewart was the nobleman who introduced the name to the British Isles. He was a French-Scottish aristocrat and a cousin to King James VI of Scotland. He was highly influential in the 16th-century royal court. Because of him, Esme was originally seen as a high-society male name.
Does Esme Need an Accent Mark?
Strictly speaking, the French spelling uses an acute accent: Esmé (masculine) or Esmée (feminine). However, in English-speaking countries like the US and UK, the accent mark is usually dropped. You can choose to use it if you want to emphasize the French pronunciation or heritage, but it is not required for the name to be valid.
Is Esme Short for Esmeralda?
Esme is a distinct name with its own etymology (Old French for “esteemed”), while Esmeralda is Spanish for “emerald.” However, because they share similar sounds, many parents use Esme as a nickname for Esmeralda. They are separate names that happen to work well together.
Why Is Esme So Popular in the UK?
Esme has been a consistent favorite in the UK for much longer than in the US. This is likely due to the UK’s proximity to France and a general British appreciation for “vintage” names that feel quintessentially English, like Isla, Freya, and Imogen. It fits the British naming style of being short, soft, and ending in a vowel.
What Is the Male Version of Esme?
Technically, Esme is the male version. The original French masculine spelling is Esmé. However, since the name has become overwhelmingly female in modern usage, parents looking for a male equivalent often look to names with similar sounds or meanings, such as Ezra, Elio, or Amias (which also means “loved”).
Is Esme Considered a Twilight Name?
Yes and no. While the character Esme Cullen in the Twilight books and movies certainly helped skyrocket the name’s popularity in the US after 2008, the name has enough historical weight and literary cred (thanks to J.D. Salinger) to stand on its own. Unlike names that were invented for the series (like Renesmee), Esme is a classic that existed long before the vampires did.
