Popularity
42
/100
At a glance
Esther is a girl name with Hebrew, Persian roots, most associated with the idea of star, hidden, myrtle leaf.
Meaning
Star, hidden, myrtle leaf
Origin
Hebrew, Persian
Gender
Girl / Female
Pronunciation
ES-ter
Name story
What Esther communicates
Esther is a girl name of Hebrew, Persian origin meaning "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.
It is pronounced ES-ter and sits at a popularity score of 42/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.
If Esther feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Hebrew, Persian heritage or its core idea of "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.
Famous People Named Esther
- QQueen Esther (Bible)
- EEsther Williams
Names with Similar Meanings
Names that share similar themes and meanings with Esther
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Share the Esther name card
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Esther mean?
The name Esther means "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf". It is a name of Hebrew, Persian origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Hebrew, Persian naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Esther.
What is the origin of the name Esther?
Esther originates from Hebrew, Persian. Names of Hebrew, Persian origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Esther fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.
Is Esther a popular name?
Esther appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Esther sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.
What names are similar to Esther?
Names similar to Esther include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Esther but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Hebrew, Persian heritage or the same idea of "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf".
How do you pronounce Esther?
Esther is pronounced "ES-ter". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Esther is said.
Is Esther a boy or a girl name?
Esther is most commonly used as a girl name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Hebrew, Persian roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.
What does the name Esther symbolize?
The name Esther symbolizes "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf". That theme gives Esther a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.
Is Esther a good baby name?
Esther is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Star, hidden, myrtle leaf", has clear Hebrew, Persian heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.