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Essie Unisex

Popularity: #887 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationESS-ee / ˈɛsi

English; Hebrew

Meaning

English: Diminutive of Esther; Hebrew: Star

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Essie is often considered a diminutive form of the name Esther, which has its roots in the Hebrew language. The Hebrew name Esther (אֶסְתֵּר) is believed to derive from the Persian word "setareh," meaning "star." This connection to light and guidance is significant, as Esther is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the Book of Esther, which recounts her story as a Jewish queen of Persia who played a crucial role in saving her people from persecution. The name Esther was adopted into Greek as "Esther" and later into Latin, maintaining its form through various translations, including the Septuagint and the Vulgate, before entering Old French as "Hester" and eventually becoming Essie in English-speaking contexts.

Historically, the name Esther gained prominence during the Middle Ages, particularly among Jewish communities, due to the biblical narrative that emphasizes themes of bravery and identity. The name was further popularized in Christian contexts through the influence of saints and biblical references. Notably, Esther's story has been celebrated in Jewish tradition during the festival of Purim, which commemorates her courage and the deliverance of the Jewish people. This cultural resonance has contributed to the enduring appeal of the name and its variants.

Essie, as a diminutive, emerged in the 19th century, reflecting a broader trend of creating affectionate or informal versions of names. The use of diminutives in English often conveys familiarity and endearment, which may explain the charm associated with Essie. The name's connection to Esther and its historical significance within both Jewish and Christian traditions have allowed it to maintain a presence in various cultural narratives, symbolizing resilience and hope.

Trend Summary

Essie has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, often associated with vintage name trends.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Esther
  • Essy

International Variants

  • Estelle (French)
  • Esther (Spanish)
  • Esther (German)

Famous people named Essie

Essie Davis is an actress best known for The Babadook, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, and The Matrix Resurrections.

Essie Mae Washington-Williams was an author and educator best known for her memoirs and being the daughter of Booker T. Washington.

Fictional characters named Essie

Essie is a fictional character from the film and musical Legally Blonde. She is a supportive friend who encourages the protagonist, Elle Woods, throughout her journey.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Essie was first seen in the United States in 1880. Essie has ranked as high as #332 nationally, which occurred in 1921, and has been most popular in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Essie has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Essie (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 8
62%
GA 5
38%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188078
188180
1882113
1883139
1884148
1885153
1886163
1887185
1888230
1889265
1890256
1891217
1892294
1893258
1894311
1895335
1896381
1897329
1898336
1899342
1900492
1901368
1902424
1903396
1904457
1905476
1906409
1907486
1908451
1909508
1910620
1911525
1912695
1913662
1914737
1915869
1916904
1917945
19181,019
19191,023
1920996
19211,032
19221,022
1923917
1924936
1925925
1926883
1927783
1928806
1929667
1930617
1931579
1932678
1933568
1934538
1935498
1936494
1937472
1938451
1939460
1940420
1941390
1942415
1943350
1944414
1945389
1946341
1947327
1948324
1949326
1950313
1951270
1952283
1953263
1954232
1955225
1956212
1957160
1958156
1959160
1960139
1961114
1962109
1963124
196493
196584
196663
196755
196860
196951
197048
197151
197238
197342
197431
197524
197632
197731
197831
197927
198023
198129
198231
198322
198417
198533
198618
198719
198817
198922
199025
199120
199220
199315
199413
199511
199610
199713
199810
199914
200011
20018
200310
200411
20058
20069
20076
20089
200912
201012
201112
201228
201324
201428
201533
201639
201739
201842
201953
202033
202142
202250
202353
202463