Esther

1. Esther name meaning and origin

Esther is a name of Persian origin, derived from the Old Persian word 'stāra' meaning 'star' (Oxford Dictionary of First Names, 2007). The name gained prominence through the biblical figure Esther, a Jewish queen of Persia who saved her people from destruction, as recounted in the Old Testament's Book of Esther. Her original Hebrew name was Hadassah, meaning 'myrtle tree,' but she adopted the Persian name Esther when she entered the royal court.

The name Esther has maintained its popularity across centuries and cultures due to its biblical significance and melodic quality. In Hebrew tradition, the name is associated with the Jewish festival of Purim, which celebrates Queen Esther's bravery. Linguistically, some scholars also connect the name to the goddess Ishtar, though this etymology is disputed among academic circles (Behind the Name, 2022).

References:

2. Esther name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Esther

United States

United Kingdom

Esther is a predominantly female name with biblical origins, derived from the Jewish heroine in the Book of Esther. While the name is recognized in both the United States and the United Kingdom, available data suggests it hasn't consistently ranked among the top names in recent popularity charts in either country.

Despite not appearing in current ranking lists, Esther maintains a timeless quality and continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its rich historical significance and elegant sound. The name has experienced periods of popularity throughout history and carries strong associations with courage and dignity, reflecting the character traits of its biblical namesake.

3. Variations and nicknames of Esther

Esther, a name with ancient Persian roots meaning 'star,' has spread across diverse cultures throughout history, developing numerous variants that reflect local linguistic traditions. In Hebrew, from which the biblical figure Esther derives, the original form is Hadassah, while European languages offer variations such as Ester (Dutch, Scandinavian, and Italian), Estée (French), Eszter (Hungarian), and Hester or Hesther (traditional English variants). Slavic languages contribute distinctive forms like Estera (Polish) and Esfir (Russian), while German-speaking regions sometimes use Estherina. These variants demonstrate how this timeless name has been embraced and adapted across continents while maintaining its celestial connection.

Affectionate nicknames and diminutives for Esther abound in everyday usage, offering personalized ways to address those bearing this elegant name. Common English-language nicknames include Essie, Ettie, Etty, Hetty, and Tess, while some families opt for the playful Starry as a nod to the name's meaning. Spanish speakers might use the endearing Esthercita, and in French circles, one might hear Estée or Esti. The versatile nickname Es (pronounced 'Ez') has gained popularity as a modern, minimalist option. Regional traditions sometimes produce unexpected diminutives, such as the occasional use of Risa or Reta as contractions of the name. Whether formal or familiar, the variants and nicknames of Esther provide a rich tapestry of options that allow this ancient name to feel simultaneously traditional and adaptable to contemporary use.

4. Best name combinations with Esther

Middle names that pair well with Esther:

Esther Rose
Esther Grace
Esther Marie
Esther Elise
Esther Naomi
Esther Claire
Esther Vivienne
Esther Josephine
Esther Diane
Esther Beatrice
Esther Abigail
Esther Miriam
Esther Ruth
Esther Adina
Esther Shalom
Esther Judith
Esther Camille
Esther Victoria
Esther Celeste
Esther Adele

Names that go well when Esther is used as a middle name:

Hannah Esther
Sophia Esther
Olivia Esther
Leah Esther
Sarah Esther
Rebecca Esther
Rachel Esther
Abigail Esther
Elizabeth Esther
Deborah Esther
Naomi Esther
Eliana Esther
Maya Esther
Adina Esther
Miriam Esther
Chaya Esther
Liliana Esther
Josephine Esther
Evelyn Esther
Amelia Esther

5. Numerology of Esther name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

5
E(5) + S(1) + T(2) + H(8) + E(5) + R(9) = 30 = 3+0 = 5

The Destiny Number 5 suggests you're naturally adaptable with a free-spirited nature. You thrive on variety and change rather than routine. Career-wise, you excel in dynamic fields requiring versatility and communication. In relationships, you bring excitement and spontaneity, though you may sometimes struggle with commitment if feeling restricted.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

6
E(5) + E(5) = 10 = 1+0 = 1

With a Soul Urge Number 1, you're inwardly driven by leadership and individuality. You desire recognition for your original ideas and independence. You're motivated by opportunities to pioneer and create. In relationships, you seek a partner who respects your autonomy while appreciating your strength and vision.

Personality Number:

4
S(1) + T(2) + H(8) + R(9) = 20 = 2+0 = 2

The Personality Number 2 reflects how others perceive you—as diplomatic, cooperative, and sensitive. You present yourself as someone who values harmony and works well with others. In professional settings, you appear as a team player and mediator. In personal relationships, you're seen as supportive and considerate, skilled at maintaining balance.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Esther name in pop culture

Name

Description

Esther Summerson

The protagonist and partial narrator of Charles Dickens' novel 'Bleak House', known for her kindness and moral virtue

Esther Greenwood

The main character in Sylvia Plath's semi-autobiographical novel 'The Bell Jar', who struggles with mental illness and societal expectations

Queen Esther

Biblical figure portrayed in numerous films including 'One Night with the King' (2006) and 'The Book of Esther' (2013)

Esther Valentine

A long-running character in the soap opera 'The Young and the Restless', portrayed by actress Kate Linder since 1982

Orphan Esther

The sinister antagonist in the 2009 psychological horror film 'Orphan' and its 2022 prequel 'Orphan: First Kill'

7. Famous people named Esther

Name

Description

Esther Williams

American competitive swimmer and actress who starred in elaborate aquatic musical films in the 1940s and 1950s

Esther Rolle

American actress best known for her role as Florida Evans in the TV sitcoms 'Maude' and 'Good Times'

Queen Esther

Biblical figure and Persian queen whose story is celebrated in the Jewish holiday of Purim

Esther Hicks

American inspirational speaker and author known for her work with 'Abraham' teachings and Law of Attraction philosophy

Esther Freud

British novelist known for works such as 'Hideous Kinky' and 'Mr. Mac and Me,' and great-granddaughter of Sigmund Freud

Esther Perel

Belgian psychotherapist, author, and speaker known for her work on modern relationships and bestselling books including 'Mating in Captivity'

Esther Phillips

American R&B, jazz, and soul singer known for hits like 'What a Diff'rence a Day Makes' and 'Release Me'

Esther McVey

British politician who served as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and has appeared on television as a presenter

Esther Canadas

Spanish model and actress who became one of the world's top models in the 1990s and appeared in the film 'The Thomas Crown Affair'

Esther Povitsky

American comedian, actress, and podcast host known for her role in the TV series 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' and co-creating 'Alone Together'

8. Names similar to Esther

Like Esther ? What about:

Darcy

Bernice

Cyrus

Aiden

Ahjin

Afton

Carter

Ainsley

Campbell

Caiden

Bette

Eszter

Caspar

Ella

Danah

Elaine

Vashti

Declan

Javan

Elise

Common sibling names

Sisters

Elise

Carter

Camille

Charlee

Ella

Darcy

Ainsley

Bella

Elaine

Brothers

Darcy

Caden

Cyrus

Bodie

Cayden

Caiden

Declan

Carter

Caleb

Caspar

Eli

Aiden

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Esther

1. Esther name meaning and origin

References:

2. Esther name popularity

3. Variations and nicknames of Esther

4. Best name combinations with Esther

Middle names that pair well with Esther:

Names that go well when Esther is used as a middle name:

5. Numerology of Esther name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

Personality Number:

6. Esther name in pop culture

7. Famous people named Esther

8. Names similar to Esther

Like Esther ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Esther

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