Esmé

Unisex
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ɛzˈmeɪ/

Esmé: a unisex name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate". It derives from the Latin word "æSTĭMāRE > æSTĭMO > ESMER".

Esmé is a both name that means "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate". Its Latin origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Esmé

Quick facts about Esmé
OriginLatin, Old French
GenderUnisex
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

æSTĭMāRE > æSTĭMO > ESMER

How to Pronounce Esmé

Esmé is pronounced /ɛzˈmeɪ/(Latin)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Esm-é
  2. Say it like: "EHZMEEEH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across english, and dutch speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

englishdutch
Frequently Asked Questions About Esmé
What does the name Esmé mean?
Esmé means "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years.". The name comes from æSTĭMāRE > æSTĭMO > ESMER. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Esmé for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Esmé's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Esmé?
Esmé has latin and old french origins. The name traces back to æSTĭMāRE > æSTĭMO > ESMER. From its latin roots, Esmé spread to become common in english, dutch. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Esmé a boy or girl name?
Esmé is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Esmé works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In latin tradition, Esmé has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years." carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal. Esmé ranks among the more popular unisex names, suggesting many parents find it appealing.
How do you pronounce Esmé?
Esmé is pronounced "/ɛzˈmeɪ/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Esmé is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, dutch, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Esmé can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Esmé?
Esmé is popular and well-recognized. Esmé falls into the sweet spot of recognizable but not overused. People will know how to spell and pronounce it, yet your child probably won't share it with three classmates. Esmé's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Esmé holds its own, appealing to parents who value classic choices.
Where is the name Esmé commonly used?
Esmé is common in english and dutch naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Esmé found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Esmé into their naming traditions. A child named Esmé will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Esmé is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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