Jess - Name Meaning and Popularity -

Meaning of Jess

Jess is a concise, traditionally masculine name of Hebrew origin, often regarded as the familiar form of Jesse, the biblical father of King David. Pronounced jess (/dʒɛs/), it offers a straightforward alternative that blends venerable roots with a modern, no-nonsense appeal. Over the past century, Jess has maintained steady, if modest, use in the United States—peaking mid-century before settling into lower ranks; in 2024 it appeared 22 times among newborn boys, placing it 902nd in popularity. Parents drawn to Jess often appreciate its blend of reliability and approachability, valuing a name that conveys quiet confidence and unpretentious warmth without sacrificing its rich, time-honored heritage.