Estee

Origin & Etymology

Estee is a diminutive or nickname form of Esther, which comes from the Hebrew word for star (aster) or possibly from the Persian word for myrtle. Esther is a biblical name, borne by the Jewish queen who saved her people in the Book of Esther. The -ee ending transforms the formal Esther into a warmer, more intimate form.

Popularity Story

Estee is most famous through Estée Lauder (born Josephine Esther Mentzer, 1908-2004), who transformed her nickname into one of the most recognizable luxury brands in the world. The name has a cozy, old-fashioned charm that appeals to parents seeking vintage names.

Cultural Significance

In Jewish Ashkenazi tradition, Esther and its variants like Estee and Essie were extremely common names honoring the biblical Queen Esther. The name is celebrated during the Jewish holiday of Purim.

Fun Facts

• Estée Lauder built a cosmetics empire starting from her kitchen, becoming one of the wealthiest self-made women in history
• The Book of Esther is one of only two books of the Bible that does not mention God

Estee in Other Languages