Meaning, origin, history
Jesse is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew name Yishai, which means "God will exist." It is also associated with the biblical figure Jesse, who was the father of King David in the Old Testament.
The name Jesse gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the Middle Ages due to its use in literature and religion. It was used as a given name for boys, although it was more commonly used as a surname. In the 19th century, the name began to be used more frequently as a given name, particularly in the United States.
Today, Jesse is considered a classic boy's name, with a timeless and traditional feel. It has consistently ranked among the most popular names for boys in English-speaking countries over the past few decades. Variations of the name include Jess, Jessie, and Jas.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jesse since 1880
Total births
428,362
Total since 1880
Peak year
1981
10,446 births
in 2023
1,804
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-1%
→
vs previous 5 years