Esther vs Nicole

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Esther

Girl #131 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"star"

Origin: Persian

Cultural Roots

Hebrew English Dutch Scandinavian

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#131
Total SSA Count
2,206
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Essie, Ettie

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Esther Rank #131
Nicole Rank #318

Esther is more popular, ranked #131 vs #318 for Nicole.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Esther ___

  • Esther Rose
  • Esther Jane
  • Esther Mae
  • Esther Grace
  • Esther Violet
  • Esther Pearl

Nicole ___

  • Nicole Marie
  • Nicole Anne
  • Nicole Elizabeth
  • Nicole Rose
  • Nicole Grace

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Esther

Ruth Agnes Sylvia Clement Jasper

If you choose Nicole

Michelle Danielle Renee Isabelle Andre

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Esther or Nicole more popular?

Esther is more popular, ranked #131 compared to Nicole at #318 in the United States.

What do Esther and Nicole mean?

Esther means "star" (Persian origin). Nicole means "Victorious one".

Are Esther and Nicole boy or girl names?

Esther is primarily a girl name. Nicole is primarily a girl name.

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