What does Elsa mean and where does it come from?
Elsa is derived from the Hebrew name Elisheba. The name gained widespread popularity post the release of Disney's 'Frozen' in 2013, where Elsa is one of the lead characters. It has historical significance in Scandinavian countries and has been used since the Middle Ages.
Cultural significance
Elsa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scandinavia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god's promise.
Peak popularity
Reached #215 in 1895 — currently #1030 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Scandinavia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Elsa?
Elsa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Elsa Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Elsa Rose
Floral · soft ending
Elsa Claire
French influence · crisp
Elsa Jane
Literary · strong
Elsa Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Elsa right now?
Declining — down 36 spots — currently #1030 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1030 | 246 | ▼ down 36 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #994 | 264 | ▼ down 42 · -4% births |
| 2021 | #952 | 275 | ▼ down 35 · -2% births |
| 2020 | #917 | 280 | ▼ down 431 · -57% births |
| 2015 | #486 | 657 | ▲ up 114 · +35% births |
| 2010 | #600 | 487 | ▲ up 161 · +39% births |
| 2005 | #761 | 350 | ▲ up 149 · +46% births |
| 2000 | #910 | 240 | ▼ down 42 · +8% births |
| 1995 | #868 | 222 | ▼ down 54 · -8% births |
| 1990 | #814 | 242 | ▲ up 31 · +26% births |
| 1985 | #845 | 192 | ▼ down 148 · -21% births |
| 1980 | #697 | 244 | ▼ down 80 · -4% births |
| 1975 | #617 | 255 | ▼ down 29 · -14% births |
| 1970 | #588 | 298 | ▼ down 11 · +9% births |
| 1965 | #577 | 274 | — |
The story of Elsa
Elsa has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 29,432 babies have received this name. Once ranked #369 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1030 in 2023. Elsa is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Elsa in 1895:
Elsa by decade
Elsa peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 537 | |
| 1890s | 1,209 | |
| 1900s | 864 | |
| 1910s | 1,578 | |
| 1920s | 1,471 | |
| 1930s | 1,289 | |
| 1940s | 1,305 | |
| 1950s | 2,515 | |
| 1960s | 2,744 | |
| 1970s | 2,560 | |
| 1980s | 2,081 | |
| 1990s | 2,197 | |
| 2000s | 3,358 | |
| 2010s ★ | 5,444 | |
| 2020s | 280 | |
What are good nicknames for Elsa?
ENGLISH
LeannaLianaLibbieLibbyLilliaLisetteLysette
What names sound and feel like Elsa?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Elsa also consider these
How is Elsa written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Elsa
What does the name Elsa mean?
Elsa means "God's promise" — a name rooted in Scandinavia tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Elsa?
Elsa is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Elsa?
Elsa originates from Scandinavia tradition. Scandinavia names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Elsa?
Elsa is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 L S AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Elsa a common or rare name?
Elsa is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.