Esmeralda, derived from the Spanish words 'esmeralda' meaning 'emerald', is a captivating and enchanting female given name of Spanish origin. It was popularized in English-speaking countries through its use in Victor Hugo's classic novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame", where it is the name of the gypsy woman, Esmeralda. This name has since become synonymous with beauty, grace, and a touch of mystery. The sound of Esmeralda rolls off the tongue with an elegant rhythm, making it a charming choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet approachable name for their daughter. It is often shortened to the affectionate nicknames 'Essie' or 'Ezzie', adding to its versatility and appeal.
The name Esmeralda peaked in popularity between 1977 and 1982 with a high of 13 births in 1982. After that period, its usage declined steadily, with fewer than 8 births annually from 1986 onwards. The name experienced a slight resurgence around the late 1990s and early 2000s but has since decreased again, with only 5 or fewer births per year since 2000. Overall, Esmeralda was given to 180 newborn girls over the course of these years.