Esme is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the name Aasmäe, which means "to cherish" or "to love." The name was popularized by Sir Walter Scott's novel "The Heart of Midlothian," published in 1818, where Esmeralda, also known as Esme, is a character who embodies kindness and compassion. The name has since become associated with Scotland and is often used there to honor the country's rich history and culture. Despite its Scottish roots, however, Esme has gained international recognition and can now be found in various spellings, such as Esmé or Ezme, throughout the world. Its meaning and association with love make it a popular choice for parents seeking a name that signifies affection and warmth.
Statistics show that the name Esme has seen a steady presence in the United States over recent years, with five babies being named Esme each year from 2016 to 2021. This indicates a consistent level of popularity for this name during this time period, with a total of ten girls named Esme across these two years.