Esme is a highly popular girls' name in England & Wales, ranking #45 in 2025 with 933 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2016 with 1,416 births ranking #35. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 591.1%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 271 girls born was named Esme. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Esme is a sleek, elegant name meaning esteemed or beloved. It feels soft, refined, and very modern despite its older French roots.
The name was once relatively rare in English-speaking use but became much more popular as short, polished vintage names rose in popularity. Its appeal lies in delicacy and restraint.