Esme
Esme is a girl name of French/English origin meaning “Esteemed, beloved”, pronounced EZ-may. It ranked #298 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,032 babies, and peaked at #298 in 2025. Common nicknames: Ez, Mae.
How popular is Esme in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Esme mean, and where does it come from?
Esme is a refined vintage name from the Old French "esmé," meaning "esteemed" or "beloved." It first appeared in Scotland in the sixteenth century and has an air of quiet, literary elegance — J. D. Salinger used it in his famous short story "For Esmé — with Love and Squalor," and the Twilight saga introduced a gentle matriarch of the same name. Short, soft, and slightly mysterious, Esme pairs an antique pedigree with a fresh, modern lightness. It suits parents drawn to names like Iris, Mabel, and Cleo — delicate, characterful, and just a little bit bookish.
How is Esme used around the world?
Esme is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 3+ international variants. From the Old French "esmé," meaning "esteemed" or "beloved.".
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Esme?
Famous People Named Esme
- Esme Cullen — character in the Twilight series
- Esmé — the girl in J. D. Salinger's story "For Esmé — with Love and Squalor"
Similar Names to Esme
If you like Esme, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Esme
Looking for names that pair well with Esme? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Esme mean?
Esme is a girl name of French/English origin meaning "Esteemed, beloved." Esme is a refined vintage name from the Old French "esmé," meaning "esteemed" or "beloved." It first appeared in Scotland in the sixteenth century and has an air of quiet, literary elegance — J.
How do you pronounce Esme?
Esme is pronounced EZ-may. Common variations include Esmé, Esmee, Esmae.
Is Esme a girl name?
Yes, Esme is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ez, Mae.