Esmee: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald".It derives from the Greek word "máragdos / smáragdos > esmaraldus / smaragdus > esmeraude".
Esmee is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald". Its Greek 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 Esmee
Quick facts about Esmee
Origin
Greek
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 “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America.
This name has found popularity across english, and dutch speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishdutch
Frequently Asked Questions About Esmee
What does the name Esmee mean?
Esmee means "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America.". The name comes from máragdos / smáragdos > esmaraldus / smaragdus > esmeraude. In its original form, the name derives from máragdos (μᾰ́ραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰ́ραγδος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Esmee for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Esmee's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like PRECIOUS STONES / COLORS (GREEN), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Esmee?
Esmee is a greek name. The name traces back to máragdos / smáragdos > esmaraldus / smaragdus > esmeraude. The original form máragdos (μᾰ́ραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰ́ραγδος) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Esmee spread to become common in english, dutch. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Esmee a boy or girl name?
Esmee is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Esmee has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Esmee?
Esmee is pronounced "/ɛsˈmeɪ/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Esmee 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 greek names, listening to a native speaker say Esmee can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root máragdos / smáragdos > esmaraldus / smaragdus > esmeraude influences how Esmee sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Esmee?
Esmee is commonly used as a nickname for Esmeralda. Being a shortened version of Esmeralda, Esmee offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Esmeralda go by Esmee throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Esmee as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Esmee as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Esmee on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Esmee?
Esmee is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Esmee offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Esmee's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Esmee holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Esmee commonly used?
Esmee is common in english and dutch naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Esmee found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Esmee into their naming traditions. A child named Esmee 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, Esmee is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Esmee?
Esmee carries associations with PRECIOUS STONES / COLORS (GREEN). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old French “esmeraude,” from the Latin “esmaraldus, smaragdus,” meaning “bright green precious stone,” which in turn derives from the Greek “máragdos (μᾰìραγδος) smáragdos (σμᾰìραγδος),” meaning “green gem, emerald.” Emerald is a gemstone, and a variety of the mineral beryl colored green by trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium. Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May, as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological signs of Taurus, Gemini, and sometimes Cancer. One of the quainter anecdotes on emeralds was by the 16th-century historian Brantôme, who referred to the many impressive emeralds the Spanish under Cortez had brought back to Europe from Latin America." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Esmee originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Esmee sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Esmee often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.