International Variations of Elizabeth

  1. Elizaveta
    • Description:

      Elizaveta is the Russian and Bulgarian form of Elizabeth, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my oath' or 'pledged to God.' This elegant Slavic variation has been used by Russian royalty, including Empress Elizabeth Petrovna who ruled Russia from 1741 to 1762. The name combines classical heritage with distinctive Slavic character through its pronunciation and spelling pattern. In Russia, it often carries the affectionate diminutives Liza or Lizaveta. While maintaining consistent usage in Eastern European countries, Elizaveta has gained some international recognition in recent decades as global naming patterns have diversified. The name carries connotations of nobility, strength, and classical beauty, offering a more distinctive alternative to the more common Elizabeth while still connecting to its rich historical legacy.

  2. Lizeth
    • Origin:

      Hispanic and Latin American short form of Elizabeth, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      Familiar in Mexico and South America, this short form of classic Elizabeth is familiar among Hispanic communities and is predominantly used in Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia. Appealing to those who like the French Lisette and want a lesser-used short form of Elizabeth, it was given to 115 girls in the US in a recent year.
  3. Yza
    • Description:

      Yza is a rare feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Isa, which derives from Elisabeth in several European cultures, or possibly a shortened form of Izabella or similar names. In some Spanish-speaking contexts, it could be related to Isabel. The name has a distinctively minimalist and modern feel despite potential historical roots. With just three letters, Yza offers a concise yet exotic sound that works well internationally. The uncommon nature of this name makes it difficult to trace definitive patterns of use, though it appears occasionally in Spanish, Portuguese, and Filipino naming traditions. The distinctive 'Y' beginning and 'z' sound give it a contemporary edge while maintaining a soft, feminine quality.

  4. Izabella
    • Origin:

      Variation of Isabella, Hungarian, Polish, and English
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      While this might look like a modern spelling of the classic Isabella, it is also the Hungarian and Polish form, pronounced with an EE sound at the beginning. A Top 50 name in Hungary and a Top 200 name in Poland, this form is also popular in Latvia.
  5. Else
    • Description:

      Else is a feminine name with Germanic origins, functioning as both a standalone name and a short form of names containing the element 'Elis' such as Elisabeth or Elise. In German and Scandinavian cultures, Else has been used independently for centuries. The name carries a simple, clean elegance with its compact four-letter formation. In Danish and Norwegian, it's pronounced 'EL-seh,' while German speakers may say 'EL-zuh.' Despite its European popularity, Else remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century but became less common after the 1940s. Today, it may appeal to parents seeking a minimalist yet classic name with European flair.

  6. Iseabail
    • Description:

      Iseabail is the Scottish Gaelic form of Isabel, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Elizabeth (Elisheva), meaning "God is my oath" or "God's promise." This melodic name has been used in Scotland since medieval times, particularly in the Highlands and Western Isles where Gaelic culture remained strong. While less common than its anglicized counterpart Isabel, Iseabail offers a distinctive cultural connection to Scottish heritage. Pronunciation can vary slightly by region, but it typically sounds like "EES-uh-bel" or "EE-sha-byl." Though relatively rare globally, the name has seen occasional use among families seeking to honor Scottish roots or those looking for a unique variation of the more familiar Isabel.
  7. Yzabel
    • Description:

      Yzabel is an uncommon variant spelling of Isabel or Isabelle, names that ultimately derive from the Hebrew name Elisheba, meaning "God is my oath." This unique spelling incorporates a 'Y' and 'z' for a distinctive, exotic flair while maintaining the pronunciation of the original. The name Isabel has deep historical roots, being popular among European royalty, particularly in Spain and France. Yzabel offers parents a way to honor this traditional name while giving their daughter a unique spelling that stands out on paper. Though rare in official records, alternative spellings like Yzabel have gained some traction in recent decades as parents seek increasingly individualistic options for their children's names.

  8. Alzbeta
    • Origin:

      Czech and Slovak variation of Elizabeth, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      The most common form of Elizabeth in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, spelled Alžběta or Alžbeta.
  9. Telse
    • Origin:

      German diminutive of Elisabeth, contract of Sünt Else
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God; saint pledged to God"
    • Description:

      One of many diminutive forms of the classic Elizabeth, Telse has its origins in German where it might have been given as a nickname to an Else (think like Polly for Mary via Molly, or Nancy for an Ann), or emerged as a contraction of Sünt Else (Saint Else).
  10. Ealasaid
    • Description:

      Ealasaid is the Scottish Gaelic form of Elizabeth, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my oath' or 'pledged to God'. Pronounced roughly as 'YAL-uh-sahj' or 'EE-la-said', this distinctive variation carries the rich heritage of Scottish Highland culture. Unlike the more familiar Elizabeth, Ealasaid retains its Celtic roots and offers a strong connection to Scottish heritage. The name has been used throughout Scottish history, though it remains relatively uncommon even within Scotland. Ealasaid provides a way for families with Scottish ancestry to honor their cultural roots with an authentic Gaelic name. Though challenging for non-Gaelic speakers to pronounce at first glance, the name has a melodious quality when spoken correctly, reflecting the musical nature of the Gaelic language.
  11. Beta
    • Origin:

      Greek, second letter of the Greek alphabet
    • Description:

      If you can't have an Alpha male, how about a Beta girl.
  12. Isabela
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Isabella
    • Description:

      One fewer L makes this name much less popular than the more traditional spelling.
  13. Elixane
    • Origin:

      Basque, diminutive or local variant of Elizabeth
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      A rare name even among Basque speakers (fewer than 20 women in Spain are called Elixane), this beautiful name has drawn some attention via Elixane Lechemia, the French pro-tennis player.
  14. Liisa
    • Description:

      Liisa is a feminine name of Finnish origin, serving as the Finnish and Estonian variant of Elizabeth, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Elisheva meaning 'God is my oath' or 'God is abundance.' This streamlined form is particularly popular in Finland, Estonia, and other Baltic regions. Liisa features the characteristic double vowel common in Finnish naming traditions, creating a melodic, flowing pronunciation. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name maintains steady usage in its countries of origin, representing a connection to Finno-Ugric cultural heritage. Liisa combines simplicity with distinctive spelling, offering an accessible yet uncommon option that carries the rich historical connections of the Elizabeth name family while providing a strong tie to Nordic and Baltic traditions.

  15. Liisa
    • Description:

      Liisa is a feminine name of Finnish origin, serving as the Finnish and Estonian variant of Elizabeth, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Elisheva meaning 'God is my oath' or 'God is abundance.' This streamlined form is particularly popular in Finland, Estonia, and other Baltic regions. Liisa features the characteristic double vowel common in Finnish naming traditions, creating a melodic, flowing pronunciation. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name maintains steady usage in its countries of origin, representing a connection to Finno-Ugric cultural heritage. Liisa combines simplicity with distinctive spelling, offering an accessible yet uncommon option that carries the rich historical connections of the Elizabeth name family while providing a strong tie to Nordic and Baltic traditions.

  16. Liesbeth
    • Origin:

      Dutch diminutive of Elizabeth
    • Meaning:

      "pledged by God"
    • Description:

      Also spelled Liesbet, this is one of many international variations of the traditional Elizabeth.
  17. Elzira
    • Description:

      Elzira is a feminine name with Portuguese and Brazilian roots, although it's relatively uncommon even in these cultures. It may be a variant of Alzira, which possibly derives from Arabic origins meaning 'island' or from the name of an ancient Iberian city. The name has a lyrical, flowing quality with its soft consonants and melodious vowel endings. Elzira carries an exotic, somewhat mysterious appeal that sets it apart from more common names. In Brazil, it was more popular in earlier generations but has become less common in recent decades. For parents seeking a distinctive feminine name with Latin flair and unique character, Elzira offers an uncommon choice that combines elegance with cultural depth.
  18. Lizbeth
    • Origin:

      Short form of Elizabeth
    • Meaning:

      "plegded to god"
    • Description:

      A condensed version of Elizabeth made more familiar by The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo's Lisbeth Salander.
  19. Elisavet
    • Origin:

      Greek, from Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      An intriguing Greek variant of Elizabeth with a soft and graceful sound.
  20. Belita
    • Origin:

      Spanish and Basque diminutive of Isabella, Italian
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God; beautiful"
    • Description:

      A nickname for Bella or Isabella, from Isabelita.