Rising since 1987, #2,572 for boys today.
Popularity of Essa since 1885
Babies named Essa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1880s | 11 | 0 |
| 1890s | 12 | 0 |
| 1900s | 5 | 0 |
| 1910s | 21 | 0 |
| 1920s | 38 | 0 |
| 1930s | 0 | 0 |
| 1940s | 5 | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 | 6 |
| 1980s | 0 | 14 |
| 1990s | 0 | 57 |
| 2000s | 5 | 114 |
| 2010s | 59 | 305 |
| 2020s | 70 | 264 |
Meaning & origin
Essa is a name of Arabic origin that has seen modest but steady growth in the United States since the 1980s. First recorded in 1978, the name has risen in popularity, particularly in the 2020s, and achieved its peak rank in 2022. In 2025, it ranks 2,572, with a frequency of about 1 in 33,492 births. Essa is most commonly used in Virginia, Illinois, and New York, reflecting its appeal in diverse, multicultural communities. While its exact meaning is debated, it may derive from the Arabic word for myrtle or be a variant of Esa, a name for Jesus in Islam. This gives the name a gentle, botanical association or a significant religious resonance. For families seeking a name that is both familiar in sound and rich in cultural heritage, Essa offers a distinctive yet accessible choice.
Essa is primarily an Arabic name, often considered a variant of Aysha (Aisha) or derived from the Arabic word for myrtle (آس, ās). It may also be a variant spelling of Esa, a form of Jesus in Islamic tradition, though this connection is debated. The name has gained some usage in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, where it has been recorded since the late 1970s.
Where Essa is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Essa
Names that share Essa's style, for a brother or sister.
