Esmée: a female 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".
Esmée has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Latin roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence 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" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Esmée
Quick facts about Esmée
Origin
Latin, Old French
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately 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 Esmée
Esmée is pronounced /ɛzˈmeɪ/(Latin)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Esm-ée
Say it like: "EHZMEEEH"
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
Name Relationships
The masculine counterpart to Esmée is Esmé, sharing the same Latin etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.
Esmée 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 Esmée for girls 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, Esmée's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Esmée?
Esmée has latin and old french origins. The name traces back to æSTĭMāRE > æSTĭMO > ESMER. From its latin roots, Esmée 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 Esmée a boy or girl name?
Esmée is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Esmée has historically been given to girls. 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 a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal. Esmée ranks among the more popular girl's names, suggesting many parents find it appealing.
How do you pronounce Esmée?
Esmée is pronounced "/ɛzˈmeɪ/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Esmée 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 Esmée can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Esmée?
Esmée is popular and well-recognized. Esmée 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. Esmée'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 girls' names, Esmée holds its own, appealing to parents who value classic choices.
What are variations of the name Esmée?
Esmée is related to Esmé (feminine). The feminine version Esmé carries the same essential meaning, adapted to fit naming conventions for girls. In latin tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve 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.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Esmée might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and dutch, Esmée may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Esmée commonly used?
Esmée is common in english and dutch naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Esmée 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 Esmée into their naming traditions. A child named Esmée 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, Esmée is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.