All about the name

Esmerlda

Female

« Esmeralda is a Spanish female given name meaning 'emerald', popularized by Victor Hugo's character in "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame". »

#58722 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Esmeralda is a unique and enchanting female given name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Spanish word "esmeralda," which means "emerald" in English. The name Esmeralda has been associated with the precious green gemstone, emerald, since ancient times. The history of the name Esmeralda can be traced back to the 16th century when it was used as a given name for Spanish women. However, it was not until the 19th century that Esmeralda gained widespread popularity and became more commonly known. This was largely due to the French Romantic poet and novelist, Victor Hugo, who featured a character named Esmeralda in his famous novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame." In the story, Esmeralda is a beautiful young woman who is wrongfully accused of theft and witchcraft. Despite her tragic fate, she remains a symbol of innocence and purity. This romanticized portrayal of Esmeralda has contributed to the enduring appeal of this name. Today, Esmeralda continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughters. It is often associated with beauty, elegance, and uniqueness, much like the emerald gemstone that inspired its creation. Esmeralda also carries a touch of mystery and romance thanks to its literary history. In summary, Esmeralda is a captivating female given name of Spanish origin that means "emerald." Its history dates back to the 16th century, but it gained popularity in the 19th century due to Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame." Today, Esmeralda is still favored by parents seeking an uncommon yet significant name for their daughters.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Esmerlda since 1880

Total births
6
Total since 1880
Peak year
1998
6 births
in 1998
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years