Esmée

Esmée is a given name of French origin, derived from the Old French word "esmé," meaning "loved" or "esteemed." It is typically a feminine given name.

The name Esmée gained some popularity in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It has seen a resurgence in recent years in various parts of the world.

Notable individuals named Esmée include Esmée Fairbairn, a British philanthropist and art patron, and Esmée Denters, a Dutch singer-songwriter. The name has also appeared in literature and popular culture.

The pronunciation of Esmée is generally /ɛzˈmeɪ/ (ez-MAY). It is a relatively uncommon but recognized name, often associated with a sense of gentleness and affection due to its etymological roots. The spelling with the diaeresis over the 'e' indicates that the vowel is pronounced separately, preventing it from being read as "es-mee."