Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Hester

      Origin 
      Greek

      Meaning 
      Star

      Variations 
      Chester, Estera, Hesper

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Hester traces its origins to the ancient Greek language, where it garnered the meaning of Star. This celestial association lent the name an aura of brilliance and uniqueness, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their children. Throughout history, the name Hester has appeared in various cultures and regions, each time leaving an imprint on the world.

      One prominent historical figure bearing the name Hester is Hester Prynne, the protagonist of Nathaniel Hawthorne's renowned novel The Scarlet Letter. Published in 1850, this literary masterpiece explores themes of redemption, love, and societal judgment. Hester Prynne, a strong-willed and independent woman, defies societal norms by refusing to reveal the identity of her lover, embracing her own truth, and wearing a scarlet A on her chest as a symbol of her adulterous act. Hawthorne's portrayal of Hester as a resilient and morally complex character has further contributed to the name's historical significance.

      In modern-day usage, the name Hester still maintains its allure and distinctive nature. While not as common as some other names, Hester continues to find favor among parents seeking a name imbued with a sense of individuality and cosmic charm. Its Greek origins and the symbolic association with stars add an element of mystique and elegance. Indeed, the name Hester holds the power to evoke both historical echoes and a sense of wonder, making it a choice that stands out in the vast tapestry of names in the modern world.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Hester.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Hester.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for Hester.

      John

      is the most common child name for Hester.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1860 is when there were the most people born with the first name Hester.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.