esmeralda

Esmeralda is the Spanish and Portuguese word for emerald, derived from Latin smaragdus, which itself comes from the Greek smaragdos. As a term, it is used primarily to refer to the gemstone, but it has also become a personal name in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking communities and beyond.

As a given name, Esmeralda is commonly used for females in many Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking cultures. Notable individuals include Esmeralda Santiago (born 1948), a Puerto Rican-born author known for works such as When I Was Puerto Rican, which recounts her immigration experience and cultural identity.

In fiction and popular culture, Esmeralda is best known as the name of the gypsy dancer in Victor Hugo's The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. The character has appeared in numerous adaptations, including Disney’s animated film, where Esmeralda is portrayed as a compassionate and determined figure. The name has continued to be used in various novels, plays, and media, often carrying associations with beauty, mystery, and exotic allure due to its gemstone meaning.