Declining since 2017, #6,116 for girls today.
Popularity of Ezmeralda since 1989
Babies named Ezmeralda per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 35 |
| 2000s | 144 |
| 2010s | 216 |
| 2020s | 109 |
Meaning & origin
Ezmeralda is a modern respelling of Esmeralda, a name that entered English through Victor Hugo's 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. While Esmeralda has seen consistent use since the 19th century, the Ezmeralda variant first appeared in U.S. records in 1989 and reached its peak rank of 6,116 in 2017, before declining in the following years. As of 2025, the name remains rare, with a 1 in 84,593 chance of being chosen. Its use is most concentrated in California, suggesting a regional appeal. The spelling with 'z' gives it a distinctive, modern flair while retaining the gemstone-inspired essence of the original.
Ezmeralda is a respelling or variant of the Spanish name Esmeralda, which derives from the Spanish word for 'emerald,' a green gemstone. The name entered English usage through the character Esmeralda in Victor Hugo's 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The variant Ezmeralda, with a 'z,' emerged in the late 20th century, possibly influenced by other 'z'-initial names and modern coinage trends. It remains uncommon, with first U.S. appearance in 1989.
Where Ezmeralda is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ezzy, Ezmie, Era
Sibling names for Ezmeralda
Names that share Ezmeralda's style, for a brother or sister.
