📅 Since 1886🏆 40 years in top 1002.34% of births at peak
How to pronounce Lisa
LEE·suh
/ˈliː.sə/ · stress on LEE · 2 syllables
“God is my oath”
Germanic origin · Girl name
What does Lisa mean and where does it come from?
Lisa is a short form of Elizabeth, originating from the Hebrew name 'Elisheva' (אֱלִישֶׁבַע). The name became popular in the 20th century, especially in the United States, and has remained a common name since. It has numerous cultural references, including songs, television characters, and public fi
Cultural significance
Lisa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god is my oath.
Rising fast — up 81 spots — currently #851 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1905–2023#851 · Top 0.63%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#851
315
▲ up 81 · +9% births
2022
#932
290
▲ up 94 · +17% births
2021
#1026
248
▲ up 25 · +6% births
2020
#1051
235
▼ down 296 · -37% births
2015
#755
373
▼ down 43 · -6% births
2010
#712
396
▼ down 219 · -36% births
2005
#493
619
▼ down 198 · -43% births
2000
#295
1,087
▼ down 151 · -51% births
1995
#144
2,237
▼ down 80 · -58% births
1990
#64
5,345
▼ down 28 · -41% births
1985
#36
9,016
▼ down 20 · -42% births
1980
#16
15,661
▼ down 8 · -14% births
1975
#8
18,134
▼ down 6 · -53% births
1970
#2
38,963
▼ down 1 · -35% births
1965
#1
60,269
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Lisa
1965Rank #1
60,269
#786
↗Rising
1905 - 202327 years
The story of Lisa
Lisa has been a beloved American name for over 138 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1886. It reached the #1 spot in 1962, making it the most popular girl name in America that year. Over 969K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2009 in 1905 to #851 in 2023. Lisa is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Lisa means "God is my oath" — a name rooted in Germanic 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 Lisa?
Lisa is currently ranked #851 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Lisa have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Lisa?
Lisa originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic 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 Lisa?
Lisa is a two-syllable name pronounced L IY1 S AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lisa trending right now?
Lisa is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Lisa
For a sister
Lisa & Erick♡
Lisa & Heidi♡
Lisa & Emma♡
Lisa & Amelia♡
For a brother
Lisa & Erick♡
Lisa & Heidi♡
Lisa & Schon♡
Lisa & Birche♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks