United Kingdom origin · popularized by Shakespeare in his play 'The Merchant of Venice
♂ 40% boys♀ 60% girls
#796US 2023
354Births / yr
→Stable
278.8kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 48 years in top 1000.72% of births at peak
How to pronounce Jessie
JES·ee
/ˈdʒɛs.iː/ · stress on JES · 2 syllables
“gift”
Associated with 'wealthy · United Kingdom origin
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 #796 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Holding steady — currently #796 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#796 · Top 0.59%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
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
▲ up 79 · +17% births
1970
#552
336
▼ down 119 · -29% births
1965
#433
474
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Jessie
1900Rank #53
3,356
#352
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
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.
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 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 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.
Sibling names that pair with Jessie
For a sister
Jessie & Lillian♡
Jessie & Millie♡
Jessie & Arthur♡
Jessie & Evie♡
For a brother
Jessie & Lillian♡
Jessie & Millie♡
Jessie & Arthur♡
Jessie & Evie♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#796
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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