What does Jesse mean and where does it come from?
Jesse is a name that has gained popularity as a female name over the years, though it has traditionally been used for males. The name originates from Hebrew, derived from the name Yishai (יִשָׁי). Jesse appears in the Bible as the father of King David. While primarily popular in English-speaking cou
Cultural significance
Jesse has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.
Peak popularity
Reached #518 in 1981 — currently #202 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Jesse?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Jesse?
Jesse works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Jesse Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Jesse Rose
Floral · soft ending
Jesse Mae
Sweet · timeless
Jesse Claire
French influence · crisp
Jesse Jane
Literary · strong
Jesse Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Jesse right now?
Declining — down 10 spots — currently #202 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #202 | 1,823 | ▼ down 10 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #192 | 1,975 | ▲ up 11 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #203 | 1,905 | ▲ up 2432 · +2924% births |
| 2020 | #2635 | 63 | ▲ up 71 · -3% births |
| 2015 | #2706 | 65 | ▼ down 833 · -40% births |
| 2010 | #1873 | 108 | ▼ down 583 · -38% births |
| 2005 | #1290 | 173 | ▼ down 484 · -39% births |
| 2000 | #806 | 282 | ▼ down 198 · -23% births |
| 1995 | #608 | 367 | ▲ up 40 · +6% births |
| 1990 | #648 | 347 | ▲ up 6 · +24% births |
| 1985 | #654 | 279 | ▼ down 29 · -4% births |
| 1980 | #625 | 292 | ▲ up 398 · +147% births |
| 1975 | #1023 | 118 | ▲ up 714 · +127% births |
| 1970 | #1737 | 52 | ▲ up 872 · +136% births |
| 1965 | #2609 | 22 | — |
The story of Jesse
Jesse has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. More than 434,667 babies have been named Jesse since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #877 in 1880 to #202 in 2023. Jesse is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.
Names that peaked alongside Jesse in 1981:
Jesse by decade
Jesse peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 6,095 | |
| 1890s | 5,522 | |
| 1900s | 4,699 | |
| 1910s | 16,607 | |
| 1920s | 23,608 | |
| 1930s | 19,191 | |
| 1940s | 24,550 | |
| 1950s | 26,909 | |
| 1960s | 22,944 | |
| 1970s | 46,038 | |
| 1980s ★ | 89,029 | |
| 1990s | 77,016 | |
| 2000s | 45,010 | |
| 2010s | 25,527 | |
| 2020s | 1,922 | |
What are good nicknames for Jesse?
What names sound and feel like Jesse?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Jesse also consider these
How is Jesse written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Jesse
What does the name Jesse mean?
Jesse means "gift" — a name rooted in American 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 Jesse?
Jesse is currently ranked #202 in the United States 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 Jesse?
Jesse originates from American tradition. American 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 Jesse?
Jesse is a two-syllable name pronounced JH EH1 S IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Jesse more of a girl or boy name?
Jesse is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.