What does Esma mean and where does it come from?
Esma is a name of Turkish and Persian origin, widely used in Turkey and among Persian-speaking populations. It also appears as an Arabic name, where it may derive from the word 'asma' meaning 'names.' The name may convey a sense of affection and revered status. Notably, Esma is a name linked with so
Cultural significance
Esma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Turkey-speaking communities, where it reflects values of beloved.
Peak popularity
Reached #1093 in 1890 — currently #4487 in the US.
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Related Reading
Turkey-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Esma?
Esma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Esma Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Esma Rose
Floral · soft ending
Esma Claire
French influence · crisp
Esma Jane
Literary · strong
Esma Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Esma right now?
Falling — down 257 spots — currently #4487 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #4487 | 31 | ▼ down 257 · -9% births |
| 2022 | #4230 | 34 | ▲ up 1047 · +42% births |
| 2021 | #5277 | 24 | ▼ down 294 · -4% births |
| 2020 | #4983 | 25 | ▼ down 584 · -22% births |
| 2015 | #4399 | 32 | ▲ up 3495 · +113% births |
| 2010 | #7894 | 15 | ▲ up 2259 · +50% births |
| 2005 | #10153 | 10 | ▼ down 253 · +11% births |
| 2000 | #9900 | 9 | ▲ up 1942 · +50% births |
| 1995 | #11842 | 6 | ▼ down 8347 · -14% births |
| 1935 | #3495 | 7 | ▲ up 248 |
| 1930 | #3743 | 7 | ▼ down 1783 · -65% births |
| 1925 | #1960 | 20 | ▲ up 249 · +18% births |
| 1920 | #2209 | 17 | ▲ up 995 · +113% births |
| 1915 | #3204 | 8 | ▼ down 1493 · -11% births |
| 1910 | #1711 | 9 | — |
The story of Esma
Esma has been a beloved American name for over 134 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1890. With 765 total births recorded, Esma remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1093 in 1890, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #4487 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Esma in 1890:
Esma by decade
Esma peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 34 | |
| 1900s | 59 | |
| 1910s | 122 | |
| 1920s | 131 | |
| 1930s | 33 | |
| 1940s | 7 | |
| 1970s | 6 | |
| 1990s | 18 | |
| 2000s | 93 | |
| 2010s ★ | 237 | |
| 2020s | 25 | |
💎Esma has only 765 total recorded births since 1890 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What names sound and feel like Esma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Esma also consider these
How is Esma written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Esma
What does the name Esma mean?
Esma means "Beloved" — a name rooted in Turkey tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Esma?
Esma is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Esma?
Esma originates from Turkey tradition. Turkey names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Esma?
Esma is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 S M AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Esma a common or rare name?
Esma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.