Essi

Girl Name
Pronunciation:/ˈɛ.si/

Essi: a female name of Old Persian origin meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love". It derives from the Old Persian word (STāRA > SETāRA) (IšTAR) (ḥADAṣAH).

Essi has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Old Persian roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Essi

Quick facts about Essi
OriginOld Persian, Akkadian (Babylonian)
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

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 Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

(STāRA > SETāRA) (IšTAR) (ḥADAṣAH)

How to Pronounce Essi

Essi is pronounced /ˈɛ.si/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Ess-i
  2. Say it like: "ESS-I"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Essi is predominantly used in german speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

german
Name Relationships

Essi is an affectionate diminutive of Esther, commonly used in german speaking regions. This shortened form maintains the original meaning while offering a more intimate, familiar tone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Essi
What does the name Essi mean?
Essi means "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar.". The name comes from (STāRA > SETāRA) (IšTAR) (ḥADAṣAH). In its original form, the name derives from setāra / setâreh (ستاره) ḥadaṣah (עשתר). This old persian name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Essi for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Essi offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like STARS AND HEAVENLY BODIES / BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Essi?
Essi has old persian and akkadian (babylonian) origins. The name traces back to (STāRA > SETāRA) (IšTAR) (ḥADAṣAH). The original form setāra / setâreh (ستاره) ḥadaṣah (עשתר) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to german naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old persian meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Essi a boy or girl name?
Essi is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old persian tradition, Essi has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Essi?
Essi is pronounced "/ˈɛ.si/". This pronunciation follows akk language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Essi is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old persian names, listening to a native speaker say Essi can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root (STāRA > SETāRA) (IšTAR) (ḥADAṣAH) influences how Essi sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Essi?
Essi is commonly used as a nickname for Esther. As a diminutive of Esther, Essi started as an affectionate short form used by family and close friends. Many people named Esther go by Essi throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In old persian cultures, using Essi as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Essi as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Essi 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 Essi?
Essi is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Essi gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Essi's popularity may vary between old persian communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Essi holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Essi commonly used?
Essi is used primarily in german naming traditions. Though old persian in origin, Essi found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Essi into their naming traditions. A child named Essi 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, Essi is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Essi?
Essi carries associations with STARS AND HEAVENLY BODIES / BIBLICAL. 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 Persian and Akkadian (Babylonian) “(stāra > setāra) (Ištar) (ḥadaṣah),” most likely from the name of the Babylonian goddess of love. The given name was adopted as an English name in the 17th-century. The biblical Queen Esther is associated with the Hebrew word “ḥadaṣah” (myrtle). It has remained a popular name in some Jewish communities. According to the bible, she was a Jewish queen of the Persian king Ahasuerus. It is the Old Testament’s name to the old Semitic mother-goddess, called in Phenicia, Ashtarte; in Babylonia, Ishtar; and in Arabia, Athtar." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In old persian culture, where Essi 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 Essi sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Essi often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In german 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.

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