Essie Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationESS-ee / ˈɛsiEnglish; 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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 8 | |
GA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 78 |
1881 | 80 |
1882 | 113 |
1883 | 139 |
1884 | 148 |
1885 | 153 |
1886 | 163 |
1887 | 185 |
1888 | 230 |
1889 | 265 |
1890 | 256 |
1891 | 217 |
1892 | 294 |
1893 | 258 |
1894 | 311 |
1895 | 335 |
1896 | 381 |
1897 | 329 |
1898 | 336 |
1899 | 342 |
1900 | 492 |
1901 | 368 |
1902 | 424 |
1903 | 396 |
1904 | 457 |
1905 | 476 |
1906 | 409 |
1907 | 486 |
1908 | 451 |
1909 | 508 |
1910 | 620 |
1911 | 525 |
1912 | 695 |
1913 | 662 |
1914 | 737 |
1915 | 869 |
1916 | 904 |
1917 | 945 |
1918 | 1,019 |
1919 | 1,023 |
1920 | 996 |
1921 | 1,032 |
1922 | 1,022 |
1923 | 917 |
1924 | 936 |
1925 | 925 |
1926 | 883 |
1927 | 783 |
1928 | 806 |
1929 | 667 |
1930 | 617 |
1931 | 579 |
1932 | 678 |
1933 | 568 |
1934 | 538 |
1935 | 498 |
1936 | 494 |
1937 | 472 |
1938 | 451 |
1939 | 460 |
1940 | 420 |
1941 | 390 |
1942 | 415 |
1943 | 350 |
1944 | 414 |
1945 | 389 |
1946 | 341 |
1947 | 327 |
1948 | 324 |
1949 | 326 |
1950 | 313 |
1951 | 270 |
1952 | 283 |
1953 | 263 |
1954 | 232 |
1955 | 225 |
1956 | 212 |
1957 | 160 |
1958 | 156 |
1959 | 160 |
1960 | 139 |
1961 | 114 |
1962 | 109 |
1963 | 124 |
1964 | 93 |
1965 | 84 |
1966 | 63 |
1967 | 55 |
1968 | 60 |
1969 | 51 |
1970 | 48 |
1971 | 51 |
1972 | 38 |
1973 | 42 |
1974 | 31 |
1975 | 24 |
1976 | 32 |
1977 | 31 |
1978 | 31 |
1979 | 27 |
1980 | 23 |
1981 | 29 |
1982 | 31 |
1983 | 22 |
1984 | 17 |
1985 | 33 |
1986 | 18 |
1987 | 19 |
1988 | 17 |
1989 | 22 |
1990 | 25 |
1991 | 20 |
1992 | 20 |
1993 | 15 |
1994 | 13 |
1995 | 11 |
1996 | 10 |
1997 | 13 |
1998 | 10 |
1999 | 14 |
2000 | 11 |
2001 | 8 |
2003 | 10 |
2004 | 11 |
2005 | 8 |
2006 | 9 |
2007 | 6 |
2008 | 9 |
2009 | 12 |
2010 | 12 |
2011 | 12 |
2012 | 28 |
2013 | 24 |
2014 | 28 |
2015 | 33 |
2016 | 39 |
2017 | 39 |
2018 | 42 |
2019 | 53 |
2020 | 33 |
2021 | 42 |
2022 | 50 |
2023 | 53 |
2024 | 63 |