Hester

What does the baby name Hester mean? Learn about what Hester means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Hester - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Hester: H-E-S-T-E-R, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Hester: HES-tər; HESS ter
Meaning of Hester: Evening star, star, star-like.
Origin of Hester: The name 'Hester' finds its origins in Old English and is derived from the word 'hester', meaning 'star'. Its earliest known use can be traced back to medieval England, where it was predominantly used as a feminine given name. Over time, 'Hester' gained popularity and found its way into various cultures and languages, each adding their own unique touch to its significance.; American Names; Greek Names; Iranian Names; Literary Names; Persian Names; Place Names; Scandinavian Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Hester: Asta; Astera; Astra; Easter; Essie; Esta; Estella; Estelle; Ester; Esther; Etty; Hadassah; Hettie; Stella
Popularity of Hester: Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Hester' has experienced ebbs and flows. In the 17th century, it reached its peak, especially in Puritan communities. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the influence of the Puritan movement, which valued biblical names. However, as time progressed, the name gradually declined in usage, and today it is considered less common.; Hester currently has 55 likes, and is in the top 8% of liked girl's names. The name Sadhbh is slightly more popular than Hester.

Etymology of Hester

To understand the linguistic roots of the name 'Hester', we must turn our attention to its Old English origins. The word 'hester' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'hasteraz', which means 'star'. This etymological connection to celestial bodies adds an enchanting layer of symbolism to the name.

Cultural Significance of Hester

While the name 'Hester' does not hold significant cultural ties in every region, it does have notable associations in certain contexts. In literature, one of the most prominent instances is Nathaniel Hawthorne 's novel, 'The Scarlet Letter'. The protagonist, 'Hester' Prynne, bears the weight of societal judgment and embodies resilience and strength. Through her character, the name 'Hester' has become synonymous with endurance and defiance in the face of adversity.