Find out how popular the first name Nesta has been for the last 24 years (from 1995 to 2018) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Nesta by gender

Based on the last 24 years of data, Nesta is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 76% of people named Nesta being male.

For the most recent data in 2018, there were 10 male babies and 7 female babies born with the name Nesta.

The history of the first name Nesta

The name Nesta has its origins in the Welsh language and culture, dating back to medieval times. It is believed to be derived from the Welsh word "nest," which means "home" or "nest." This name was initially given to children, especially girls, as a way to express the idea of warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

Nesta has a long and rich history, with several notable references in Welsh literature and folklore. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Mabinogion, a collection of medieval Welsh tales and stories dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. In these tales, Nesta is mentioned as the name of a beautiful and virtuous woman.

Throughout the centuries, Nesta has been a popular name among the Welsh nobility and aristocracy. One of the most famous historical figures bearing this name was Nesta ferch Rhys (c. 1073-1135), the daughter of Rhys ap Tewdwr, the last sovereign Prince of South Wales. Nesta played a significant role in the political and social dynamics of medieval Wales, and her descendants went on to become influential figures in their own right.

Another notable figure was Nesta de Lacy (c. 1156-1212), a Welsh noblewoman who was the daughter of Gwladus ferch Llewelyn and Rhys ap Gruffydd, Prince of Deheubarth. Nesta was married to Robert de Lacy, Lord of Pontefract, and their union helped strengthen the ties between the Welsh and Norman nobility.

In the literary world, Nesta Webster (1876-1960) was a prominent English writer and historian known for her works on the French Revolution and conspiracy theories. Although not of Welsh descent, her choice of the name Nesta reflects the enduring appeal of this Welsh name.

Another notable figure was Nesta Wyn Ellis (1920-2018), a Welsh author and playwright who made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of the Welsh language and culture. Her plays and novels explored themes of Welsh identity and the challenges faced by rural communities.

While the name Nesta has its roots in the Welsh language and culture, it has gained popularity across different regions and cultures over time. Its connection to the concepts of home, warmth, and belonging has resonated with many, making it a cherished name choice for generations.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Nesta was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Nesta, please contact us.

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