Esme is a name that has been gaining popularity in recent years. But what does it mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning of the name Esme and its origin, as well as some interesting facts and tips for those considering naming their child Esme.
What is the Meaning of the Name Esme?
The name Esme is of French origin and means “beloved” or “esteemed.” It can also be spelled Esmée, which is the feminine form of the name. Esme can be used as both a boy’s and girl’s name, although it is more commonly used for girls.
Who Named Their Children Esme?
Several famous people have named their children Esme, including actor Michael J. Fox and his wife Tracy Pollan, who named their daughter Esme Annabelle. Actress Uma Thurman also named her daughter Rosalind Arusha Arkadina Altalune Florence Thurman-Busson, but goes by the nickname Luna or Esme.
When Was the Name Esme First Used?
The name Esme was first used in the 17th century in France. It gained popularity in the early 20th century in England, where it was used as a nickname for the name Esther. Since then, Esme has become a popular name choice for parents all around the world.
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How to Choose a Middle Name for Esme?
When choosing a middle name for Esme, it’s important to consider the flow and sound of the names together. Some popular middle name choices for Esme include Rose, Grace, Elizabeth, and Marie. Parents may also choose a middle name that pays homage to a family member or has personal significance.
Pros and Cons of Naming Your Child Esme
Pros:
- Unique: Esme is not a very common name, so your child will likely be one of only a few with the name in their class or social circle.
- Easy to Spell and Pronounce: Esme is a short and simple name that is easy to spell and pronounce, which can be an advantage for children as they learn to write and speak.
Cons:
- Mispronunciation: While Esme is easy to pronounce for English speakers, it may be mispronounced by those unfamiliar with the name’s French origin.
- Similarity to Other Names: Esme is similar in sound to other popular names like Emma and Emily, which may lead to confusion or mistaken identity.
Alternatives to Esme
If you love the sound of Esme but are looking for alternatives, here are some similar names to consider:
- Aria
- Elsie
- Lucia
- Mia
- Nora
Step-by-Step Guide to Naming Your Child Esme
- Consider the meaning and origin of the name Esme.
- Determine whether you want to use Esme as a boy’s or girl’s name.
- Think about middle name options that flow well with Esme.
- Research potential nicknames or variations of the name.
- Discuss the name with your partner and family members to ensure everyone is on board.
Compare Esme to Other Popular Names
Here is a comparison of the popularity of Esme to other popular names over the past decade:
Name | Popularity Ranking |
---|---|
Esme | #636 |
Emma | #1 |
Emily | #12 |
Olivia | #2 |
Sophia | #4 |
As you can see, Esme is not as popular as other popular names like Emma and Olivia, but it is still a well-known name.
Tips for Naming Your Child Esme
- Consider the meaning and origin of the name before making a final decision.
- Think about how the name will sound with your last name and potential middle names.
- Try out different nicknames or variations of the name to see what you like best.
The Best Middle Names for Esme
Here are some of the best middle names that pair well with Esme:
- Esme Charlotte
- Esme Juliette
- Esme Louisa
- Esme Victoria
Conclusion
The name Esme is a beautiful and unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon name with a lovely meaning. Whether you choose to use it as a boy’s or girl’s name, Esme is sure to make a statement.
FAQs
- Is Esme a popular name? Esme is not as popular as other names like Emma or Olivia, but it is still a well-known name.
- What does the name Esme mean? The name Esme means “beloved” or “esteemed.”
- Is Esme a boy’s or girl’s name? Esme can be used as both a boy’s and girl’s name, although it is more commonly used for girls4. What are some variations of the name Esme? Variations of the name Esme include Esmée, Esma, and Esmeralda.
- What are some famous people named Esme? Actors Michael J. Fox and Uma Thurman have both named their daughters Esme.

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.