“star” — Associated with the biblical figure Queen Esther from the Book of
Hebrew origin · Unisex name
♂ 5% boys♀ 95% girls
#864US 2023
1.3kBirths / yr
→Stable
16.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 188100.03% of births at peak
How to pronounce Ester
es-ter(finnish)
/es-ter(finnish)/ · · 2 syllables
“star”
Associated with the biblical figure Queen Esther from the Book of · Hebrew origin
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.
Holding steady — currently #864 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1885–2023#864 · Top 0.64%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
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
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ester
1905Rank #371
1,336
#1043
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
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.
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.
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