Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Esme

Esme is the English form of the French Esmé which developed as a name for both boys and girls; it’s derived from the Old French meaning “esteemed, loved”. The first instance we’re aware of Esmé’s usage as a name in English speaking countries dates back to 16th century Scotland. Esmé Stewart was the name of the 1st Duke of Lennox (1542-1583); a nobleman who won his power and privileges through his friendship with a then very young King James VI of Scotland. Esmé, who was born Catholic in Presbyterian Scotland, was not a favorite among the other nobles, however, despite his public faith conversion in support of the king. In more modern times, Esme has seen her own conversion – from male to female. This name is now almost exclusively used for girls. Incidentally, Esme (or Esmé) is currently the 74th most popular baby girl’s name in England and Wales (although she’s no longer so “esteemed” in her motherland of France – the name doesn’t appear on the French charts today). Some people might also argue that Esme could be used as a pet form of Esmeralda. Makes sense to us.

All About the Baby Name – Esme

Personality

OF THE GIRL NAME ESME

Romance is the hallmark of the Six personality. They exude nurturing, loving, and caring energy. Sixes are in love with the idea of love in its idealized form - and with their magnetic personalities, they easily draw people toward them. Like the number Two personality, they seek balance and harmony in their life and the world at large. They are conscientious and service-oriented, and a champion for the underdog. These personalities naturally attract money and are usually surrounded by lovely material objects - but their human relationships are always primary. They thrive in giving back to others rather than being motivated by their own desires. This is when they achieve great things. Sixes are natural teachers, ministers and counselors.

Popularity

OF THE GIRL NAME ESME

Despite the fact that Esmé is a gender-neutral name that dates back to the Middle Ages in France, it didn’t show up on the U.S. naming charts until the 21st century (in 2010). And in America it’s only used on baby girls. With just a couple of years under her belt on this side of the Atlantic, Esme has yet to prove herself stateside. In fact, less than 1,000 total females in America today can claim the name Esme (unless they’re an immigrant or a tourist). Esme reminds us of Maisie – two names popular amoung the British – but yet to find their way onto American soil in any significant way. Lucky is the parent who discovers this hidden gen of a name. It’s very French, sophisticated and aristocratic, but it’s also very sweet sounding. It has old-fashioned charm and an “esteemed” etymology. Esmé also has a small dose of literary importance; she appears in J.D. Salinger’s memorable post-WWII short story “For Esmé with Love and Squalor” (1950). And for those Twilight fans out there, Esme Cullen is a matriarch figure among vampires.

Quick Facts

ON ESME

GENDER:

Girl

ORIGIN:

French

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

2

RANKING POPULARITY:

929

PRONUNCIATION:

ez-MEE

SIMPLE MEANING:

Esteemed

Characteristics

OF ESME

Humanitarian

Community-minded

Family-oriented

Loving

Affectionate

Compassionate

Sensitive

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Esme

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME ESME

Esme is the young protagonist in J. D. Salinger’s short story, “For Esme – With Love and Squalor”, in his 1950 collection, Nine Stories (the story originally having been published in The New Yorker). This is a story of hope, redemption and new beginnings, all of which are personified by the frail little figure of Esme. Esme, in her orphaned innocence, represents no less than the overwhelming trust that mankind may prevail against a sea of sorrows. What she offers to Sergeant X is not just a talisman – it is a beacon of hope in a darkness of despair – it likely saves his life, as it bolsters ours.

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME ESME

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Esme


Popular Songs

ON ESME

For Esme
a song by Jawbreaker

Famous People

NAMED ESME

We cannot find any famous people with the first name Esme.

Children of Famous People

NAMED ESME

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Esme

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME ESME

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Esme