Elizabeth

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Elizabeth

Gender Girl
Origin Hebrew
Letters 9
Syllables 4
Pronunciation ih-LIH-zuh-beth

Elizabeth, which has 9 letters and 4 syllables, is a female name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of Elizabeth

Consecrated to god

Elizabeth is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin meaning “God is my oath” or “God is abundance”. It is derived from the Hebrew name Elisheva, which is composed of two elements - El, meaning “God”, and sheva, meaning “oath”.

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(3.5/5 from 132 votes)
Meaning Consecrated to god
Origin Hebrew
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #17 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Popular (Top 50)
Era Vintage (1900s)

Background & History of The Name Elizabeth

The name Elizabeth has a rich history and is derived from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning "my God is an oath" or "my God is abundance." It has been a popular name of choice for centuries, stemming from the biblical figure Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. As a testament to its enduring appeal, Elizabeth remains one of the most popular names for baby girls across the globe.

In addition to its biblical origins, the name Elizabeth has been borne by many prominent figures throughout history. Perhaps the most notable of these is Queen Elizabeth I of England, who ruled during the Elizabethan era and is remembered as one of the country's greatest monarchs. Her reign was marked by a period of significant cultural and artistic growth, with renowned playwright William Shakespeare flourishing during this time.

The name Elizabeth also gained popularity among European royalty. Multiple queens and empresses, such as Elizabeth of Russia and Empress Elisabeth of Austria, were named Elizabeth. This royal association adds to the name's regal and elegant connotations.

Elizabeth has maintained its popularity due to its versatility and the various diminutive forms it can take. Common alternatives include Liz, Lizzie, Beth, Bethy, and Eliza. This flexibility allows individuals to choose a version that best suits their personal preferences.

Elizabeth has also made its mark in popular culture. Characters named Elizabeth can be found in literature, such as Elizabeth Bennet from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, and in film, such as Elizabeth Swann from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. These representations have further contributed to the name's enduring allure.

In summary, the name Elizabeth has a deep and diverse history, rooted in biblical origins and associated with influential figures throughout time. Its religious and royal connections, combined with its versatility and cultural impact, have solidified its place as a beloved name for generations.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Elizabeth over the years.

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Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Elizabeth.

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