Estes sits next to 4 phonetic neighbors — Estes, Estus, and Este are the closest matches by sound. Most share Estes's English-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"from the east, eastern place"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Estes — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Old French d'Este origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Estes.
Rhythm: Estes is a 2-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.