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Origin and meaning of the name Esmeralda

What is the origin of the name Esmeralda?

The name Esmeralda is derived from the Spanish and Portuguese word for emerald, "esmeralda." The name was popularized by Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," published in 1831, where the character Esmeralda is a beautiful gypsy woman. Before that, it was rarely used as a given name and was more commonly associated with the gemstone itself.

Learn more about the origin of the name Esmeralda

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Esmeralda

The name Esmeralda is of Spanish origin and is derived from the word "esmeraldas," which means emeralds in Spanish. This name gained popularity due to its association with the character Esmeralda, the gypsy heroine in Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame." In the story, Esmeralda is a beautiful and kind-hearted gypsy woman who captures the heart of Quasimodo, the hunchback bell-ringer of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The name Esmeralda has a vibrant, exotic feel and is often associated with beauty, mystery, and strength, much like the precious gemstone it is named after.

Character traits associated with the name Esmeralda

Esmeralda is often associated with individuals possessing a vibrant and unique personality. Her name, derived from the Spanish word for emerald, suggests a deep connection to nature and an appreciation for beauty. Individuals named Esmeralda are typically known for their resilience, as the character Esmeralda in Victor Hugo's "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" displayed strength in overcoming adversity. She is often creative, independent, and passionate, reflecting the gemstone's deep green color symbolizing rebirth and renewal. Esmeraldas are also known for their charm and charisma, attracting others with their magnetic personalities. They tend to be sensitive and compassionate, demonstrating a strong sense of empathy towards others, especially those in need. However, they may also possess a stubborn streak, refusing to compromise on matters close to their heart.

Popularity of the name Esmeralda

The name Esmeralda holds significant charm and intrigue, particularly in certain regions worldwide. Originated from the Spanish form of the Arabic word 'as-zamarald', meaning emerald, it has been embraced by various cultures due to its unique and gem-inspired connotation. In Portugal, for instance, Esmeralda is among the top 200 most common female names. In France, where it gained widespread fame through Victor Hugo's "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," it has been a popular choice for baby girls since the novel was published in 1831. However, its popularity varies greatly between countries and regions, with fluctuations over time influenced by cultural trends and parental preferences.

Famous people with the name Esmeralda

Esmeralda, a name of Sanskrit origin meaning "emerald," has been bestowed upon several prominent figures throughout history. One of the most renowned is Esmeralda Santiago, a Puerto Rican author who wrote the acclaimed memoir "When I Was Puerto Rican." Born in 1950, her work chronicles her family's journey from Puerto Rico to New York City and has been translated into numerous languages. In the world of ballet, Esmeralda is also a well-known name for the Gypsy character in the classic tale "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." Victor Hugo, the author who created this story, never named the character Esmeralda but it has become popularly associated with her due to various adaptations and ballet performances. In contemporary times, Esmeraldas have made significant contributions across various fields, further enriching the legacy of this distinctive name.

Variations of the name Esmeralda

The name Esmeralda has various derivatives and forms across different languages and cultures. Here are some of the known versions:

1. Emerald - This is an English derivative of Esmeralda, which means emerald, a precious green gemstone.
2. Esmerelde - This is a Portuguese variant of the name.
3. Esméralda - In French, the name maintains its original spelling.
4. Esmeralda-Marie - A combination of Esmeralda and Marie, which is commonly used in French-speaking regions.
5. Emeraldine - An English diminutive form, often used as a nickname or middle name.
6. Esmé - This is a common shortened version of Esmeralda, with a more modern feel.
7. Esma - A variant in Turkish and Arabic, derived from the original Spanish name.
8. Zmajka - In Slovene, Esmeralda translates to Zmajka, which means little dragon.
9. Smáragdur - This is the Icelandic form of Esmeralda, meaning emerald.
10. Emerenciana or Emerenciana de la Giraudière - A character from Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", based on the name Esmeralda.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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