What does Jessie mean and where does it come from?
Jessie is often considered a diminutive of Jessica, which was popularized by Shakespeare in his play 'The Merchant of Venice.' The name has Scottish origins, derived from the word 'Jessie,' which may mean 'gift' or can be associated with 'wealthy.' Jessie was exceedingly popular in the late 19th and
Cultural significance
Jessie has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.
Peak popularity
Reached #34 in 1881 — currently #824 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Jessie?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Jessie?
Jessie works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Jessie Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Jessie Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Jessie Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Jessie Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Jessie Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Jessie Myles
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Jessie right now?
Declining — down 15 spots — currently #824 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #824 | 330 | ▼ down 15 · -5% births |
| 2024 | #809 | 348 | ▼ down 13 · -2% births |
| 2023 | #796 | 354 | ▼ down 2 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #794 | 356 | stable |
| 2021 | #794 | 356 | ▼ down 78 · -8% births |
| 2020 | #716 | 385 | ▼ down 101 · -18% births |
| 2015 | #615 | 469 | ▲ up 69 · +12% births |
| 2010 | #684 | 419 | ▼ down 118 · -17% births |
| 2005 | #566 | 507 | ▼ down 167 · -29% births |
| 2000 | #399 | 719 | ▼ down 150 · -37% births |
| 1995 | #249 | 1,138 | ▲ up 4 · +2% births |
| 1990 | #253 | 1,117 | ▼ down 19 |
| 1985 | #234 | 1,112 | ▲ up 69 · +37% births |
| 1980 | #303 | 813 | ▲ up 170 · +107% births |
| 1975 | #473 | 392 | — |
The story of Jessie
Jessie has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #34 in 1881. More than 278,818 babies have been named Jessie since 1880. Once ranked #36 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #796 in 2023. Jessie is used for both genders: 60% female and 40% male.
Names that peaked alongside Jessie in 1881:
Jessie by decade
Jessie peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 11,029 | |
| 1890s | 14,294 | |
| 1900s | 16,134 | |
| 1910s | 38,005 | |
| 1920s ★ | 44,084 | |
| 1930s | 28,481 | |
| 1940s | 22,467 | |
| 1950s | 17,814 | |
| 1960s | 12,897 | |
| 1970s | 12,602 | |
| 1980s | 22,525 | |
| 1990s | 19,437 | |
| 2000s | 11,272 | |
| 2010s | 7,241 | |
| 2020s | 1,496 | |
What are good nicknames for Jessie?
What names sound and feel like Jessie?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Jessie also consider these
Common questions about the name Jessie
What does the name Jessie mean?
Jessie means "gift" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Jessie?
Jessie is currently ranked #796 as a baby 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 Jessie?
Jessie originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom 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 Jessie?
Jessie is a two-syllable name pronounced JES-ee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Jessie more of a girl or boy name?
Jessie is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.