Girl name · French
Esme
“esteemed, beloved”
Vibes
Explore Esme further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Esme — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Esme is Old French — esmé, "esteemed, beloved" — a sixteenth-century Scottish ducal name that Salinger fixed in literature ("For Esmé — with Love and Squalor") and Twilight quietly re-seeded.
Esme has entered the American top 400 and climbs — beloved, as advertised, by parents wanting French economy with literary shelf space.
Two syllables (EZ-may) of complete polish. It pairs well with longer middles (Esme Evangeline, Esme Josephine). On our vibe map it is Soft & Dreamy with Vintage Elegant tailoring and a Whimsical Salinger dedication.
More French names
Esme sits in our French set — these share its roots.
All French names →Esme — common questions
Is Esme a boy or girl name?
Esme is traditionally a girl name of French origin. It ranked #298 among US girls' names in 2025.
What does the name Esme mean?
Esme means “esteemed, beloved” of French origin. Esme is Old French — esmé, "esteemed, beloved" — a sixteenth-century Scottish ducal name that Salinger fixed in literature ("For Esmé — with Love and Squalor") and Twilight quietly re-seeded.
Where does the name Esme come from?
Esme is French in origin. Esme has entered the American top 400 and climbs — beloved, as advertised, by parents wanting French economy with literary shelf space.
How popular is Esme?
Esme ranked #298 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which makes it familiar without being crowded.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Esme you might want for the nursery.