Elizabeth

Updated: October 22, 2023 by MomsWhoThink Staff

When you think of the most timeless baby girl names, you may instantly think of Elizabeth. This name has been around since New Testament times, and it is here to stay. Even as of the year 2020, it is still a top 20 option.

Meaning of the Name Elizabeth

Elizabeth is the anglicized version of the Greek name Elisabet, coming from the Hebrew Elisheva. Elisheba is Aaron's wife in the Old Testament, and in the New Testament, the baby name Elizabeth appears as the mother over John the Baptist.

The name became popular among the Christian church in the twelfth century, even permeating English royalty. Elizabeth dates back to the ancient Hebrew name Elisheva. This name also means “God is my oath.” It comes from the root words el (meaning “God”) and shava (meaning “oath”).

Nicknames for Elizabeth

Elizabeth feels classic, beautiful, and formal. It is a name that is timeless and will last through the ages. For such a formal and mature name, you can always make it feel bright and bubbly with the perfect nickname. Below, we've compiled a list of possible nickname options to help get you inspired.

Beth
Lizzie
Liz
Eliza
Ellie
Ella
Libby
Bess
Tibby
Betty

Elizabeth Name Details

Style: Classical

Gender: Elizabeth is traditionally considered to be a girls name.

Pronunciation: i-LIZ-uh-beth

Syllables: Four

Alternative Spellings for Elizabeth

Elisabeth
Ellizabeth
Elyzabeth
Elysabeth

Elizabeth Name Popularity

The baby name Elizabeth was on the top 10 list until 1923 and again in 1925. It descended to the top 20 list until 1939, and the top 30 list until 1959. As of 1960, it became a top 20 name again, then a top 10 name again in 1980 to about 2013. There were some years in there, however, in which Elizabeth was rank 11. As of 2014, Elizabeth is a top 20 name again, and in 2020, it ranked number 16.