Esra

1. Esra name meaning and origin

The name Esra, often spelled Ezra in English-speaking countries, has its origins in Hebrew, where it means 'help' or 'helper.' The name derives from the Hebrew word 'ezer,' carrying connotations of divine assistance and support. In biblical contexts, Ezra was a prominent Jewish scribe and priest who led a group of Israelite exiles back from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem in the 5th century BCE.

In various Middle Eastern and European cultures, Esra has gained popularity as both a masculine and feminine name, though its use varies by region. In Turkish and Arabic-speaking communities, Esra is predominantly a feminine name, while the variant Ezra remains more commonly masculine in Western societies. The name has maintained its spiritual significance across cultures, often associated with wisdom, leadership, and divine guidance—qualities attributed to the biblical figure who helped restore religious practices among returned exiles.

2. Esra name popularity

Esra is a unisex name with roots in Middle Eastern and Turkish cultures, though it appears to have limited popularity in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The name doesn't register in ranking data for either country, suggesting it remains relatively uncommon in these Western regions. In Turkish, Esra has connections to an ancient biblical reference meaning "help" or "support."

Despite its rarity in Anglo-American contexts, Esra maintains a presence in multicultural communities within both countries. The name's gender-neutral nature allows for flexibility across cultures, making it an understated choice for parents seeking a name with international resonance yet distinctive character in English-speaking countries.

3. Variations and nicknames of Esra

The name Esra, with its melodic sound and ancient roots, has gained popularity across numerous cultures and languages over the centuries. In its original form, Esra derives from Hebrew origins, though various cultures have adapted it to create distinctive variants. In Hebrew tradition, the masculine form Ezra appears in biblical texts, while the feminine Esra has flourished in Turkish and Middle Eastern communities. Other spelling variations include Esrae, Esraa, and Esrah, each subtly changing the pronunciation while maintaining the name's essence. Germanic and Scandinavian cultures sometimes use Esras, adding a gentle sibilant ending, while the Latinized version Esrus appears occasionally in historical records. Some European communities have adopted Eszra, incorporating their linguistic patterns into this versatile name.

Beyond formal variants, Esra has inspired a wealth of affectionate nicknames across different communities. Friends and family often shorten the name to Ez or Ezzy, creating a playful, intimate address. The endearing forms Essi and Essie have gained popularity in English-speaking regions, while Es remains a minimalist option favored for its simplicity. In Turkish communities, where the name enjoys widespread use, Esracık (little Esra) serves as a tender diminutive. Some families create more personalized nicknames like Rosie (playing on the central 's' and 'r' sounds), Eya, or the rhyming Nesra. Children named Esra might also find themselves called Star or Estrella, creative interpretations that reference the celestial meaning sometimes attributed to the name. These varied forms demonstrate how this succinct yet melodious name adapts beautifully across cultural boundaries while maintaining its distinctive character and appeal.

4. Best name combinations with Esra

5. Numerology of Esra name

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.