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Hester

Hester is derived from the Persian name 'Esther,' which means 'star.' It was borne by the Biblical Queen Esther, who played a pivotal role in the story of Purim. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries through religious texts and literature.

IPA: /ˈhɛstər/ · Simplified: HESS-ter

Female
Hebrew
Jewish/Christian
Middle Eastern
classic
elegant
mysterious
strong

15/100

Popularity

Stable

10-Year Trend

2

Countries

2019

Peak Year

Meaning of Hester

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Hester is derived from the Persian name 'Esther,' which means 'star.' It was borne by the Biblical Queen Esther, who played a pivotal role in the story of Purim. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries through religious texts and literature.

Does Hester flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Hester

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈhɛstər/ · Simplified: HESS-ter

Nicknames for Hester

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Hess
Hetty
Tess
Essie

Hester name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

13

United States

12

United Kingdom

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Esther

Ester

Essie

Aster

Names like Hester

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Hester

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

People named Hester are often thought to be introspective and thoughtful, carrying an air of sophistication and mystery. They are seen as strong and resilient individuals who can navigate challenges with grace and poise.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Hester

Well-known figures who share this name.

H

Hester Prynne

Fictional character from Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'The Scarlet Letter' (1850)

Frequently asked questions about Hester

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Hester mean?
Here is the meaning behind Hester: Hester is derived from the Persian name 'Esther,' which means 'star.' It was borne by the Biblical Queen Esther, who played a pivotal role in the story of Purim. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries through religious texts and literature.
Is Hester a boy or girl name?
Hester is traditionally a girl's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Hester?
Hester scores 15/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2019.
What are good nicknames for Hester?
Popular nicknames for Hester: Hess, Hetty, Tess, Essie.
What names are similar to Hester?
Names similar to Hester: Esther, Hazel, Helena, Hannah — close in sound, origin, or style.

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