Esmay is a unique and captivating female given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "Sgàin", which means "peace". The name Esmay has been used for centuries in Scotland, with historical records dating back to the 16th century.
The meaning behind Esmay is deeply profound and meaningful. As it translates to "peace", it signifies harmony, tranquility, and serenity. This makes Esmay a fitting choice for parents looking for a name that embodies positivity and grace.
Esmay has also been associated with the Irish surname Esmond, which was once thought to be of Scottish origin but is now believed to have Norman roots. The Normans were Viking invaders who settled in England in the 11th century, bringing many new names and customs with them.
Throughout history, Esmay has been carried by notable figures, including Esme Stewart, Duchess of Richmond (1599-1678), who was a member of the influential House of Stuart. This further underscores the prestige and antiquity of this intriguing name.
In literature, Esmay has also made an appearance in works such as "The Mysterious Affair at Styles" by Agatha Christie, where Esme Howard is a supporting character. This further highlights how Esmay has captured the imagination of writers throughout history.
Despite its rich history and captivating meaning, Esmay remains relatively uncommon today. However, for parents seeking an unusual yet significant name for their daughter, Esmay offers a unique blend of elegance, strength, and timelessness.
The name Esmay has seen a fluctuating trend in popularity over the past decade and a half in the United States. With just five babies being named Esmay in 2009, the number of newborns bearing this name increased steadily over the following years, reaching a peak of 35 births in 2020.
After 2014, the annual number of Esmay births exceeded 16 each year until 2021. However, there was a significant jump from 25 births in 2021 to 27 births in 2022, indicating that Esmay's popularity may be on the rise once again.
In total, over the years between 2009 and 2023, 247 babies have been named Esmay in the United States. This demonstrates that while Esmay is not one of the most popular names, it has maintained a consistent presence among baby names during this period.