What does Ester mean and where does it come from?
The name Ester (אֶסְתֵּר) has its origins in Hebrew and Persian languages. In Hebrew, it translates to 'star', while in Persian, it refers to a type of myrtle leaf. The name is often associated with the biblical figure Queen Esther from the Book of Esther in the Hebrew Bible, who was known for her b
Cultural significance
Ester has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of star.
Peak popularity
Reached #371 in 1905 — currently #864 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ester?
Ester works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ester Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ester Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ester Mae
Sweet · timeless
Ester Claire
French influence · crisp
Ester Jane
Literary · strong
Ester Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ester right now?
Holding steady — currently #864 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #864 | 1,336 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #869 | 1,316 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #874 | 1,286 | ▲ up 780 · +946% births |
| 2020 | #1654 | 123 | ▲ up 194 · +11% births |
| 2015 | #1848 | 111 | ▼ down 101 · -7% births |
| 2010 | #1747 | 119 | ▼ down 66 · +1% births |
| 2005 | #1681 | 118 | ▲ up 38 · +16% births |
| 2000 | #1719 | 102 | ▲ up 160 · +38% births |
| 1995 | #1879 | 74 | ▲ up 131 · +10% births |
| 1990 | #2010 | 67 | ▼ down 242 · +5% births |
| 1985 | #1768 | 64 | ▼ down 162 · -11% births |
| 1980 | #1606 | 72 | ▼ down 18 · +16% births |
| 1975 | #1588 | 62 | ▼ down 340 · -30% births |
| 1970 | #1248 | 89 | ▼ down 312 · -25% births |
| 1965 | #936 | 119 | — |
The story of Ester
Ester has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. A total of 16,421 babies have received this name. Ester is used for both genders: 95% female and 5% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ester in 1905:
Ester by decade
Ester peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 120 | |
| 1890s | 417 | |
| 1900s | 650 | |
| 1910s | 1,778 | |
| 1920s ★ | 2,594 | |
| 1930s | 1,721 | |
| 1940s | 1,703 | |
| 1950s | 1,675 | |
| 1960s | 1,204 | |
| 1970s | 756 | |
| 1980s | 736 | |
| 1990s | 752 | |
| 2000s | 1,006 | |
| 2010s | 1,186 | |
| 2020s | 123 | |
What are good nicknames for Ester?
What names sound and feel like Ester?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ester also consider these
How is Ester written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Ester
What does the name Ester mean?
Ester means "star" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Ester?
Ester is currently ranked #864 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ester?
Ester originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Ester a common or rare name?
Ester is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Ester more of a girl or boy name?
Ester is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.