Esme: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced EZ-may · 2 syllables
Esme means “esteemed”, from French.
First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century, probably from French esme (“esteemed”), or confused with Aime / Aimee.
- Meaning
- esteemed
- Origin
- French
- Pronunciation
- EZ-may
- US rank (2025)
- #298
- US babies a year
- about 955 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2020
- Style
- Rising
How popular is Esme?
Esme was the #298 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,032 babies. It’s rising: up 207% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #298 |
| England & Wales | #42 |
| Scotland | #58 |
| Northern Ireland | #84 |
| Ireland | #76 |
| France | #889 |
| Canada | #371 |
| Australia | #150 |
How old are people named Esme?
Half of US adults named Esme are older than 22; most are between 18 and 44. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Esme
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
- Zoya
- Aiza
- Yusra
On these lists
Questions about Esme
What does the name Esme mean?
Esme means “esteemed”. It comes from French.
How do you pronounce Esme?
Esme is pronounced EZ-may.
How popular is the name Esme?
Esme was the #298 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,032 babies. It’s rising: up 207% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
How old are people named Esme?
Half of US adults named Esme are older than 22. Most are between 18 and 44.