Elsie
Elsie is a girl name of Scottish / Hebrew origin meaning “Pledged to God”, pronounced EL-see. It ranked #123 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,236 babies, and peaked at #31 in 1896. Common nicknames: El, Ellie.
How popular is Elsie in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Elsie mean, and where does it come from?
Elsie originated as a Scottish diminutive of Elizabeth, which derives from the Hebrew Elisheva, meaning "my God is an oath" or "pledged to God." It emerged as an independent name in Scotland in the 18th century and spread throughout the English-speaking world during the Victorian era. Elsie was in the US top 50 in the early 1900s before declining in the mid-20th century. It has made a striking comeback in the 2010s, part of a broader revival of vintage short names that feel both charming and approachable.
How is Elsie used around the world?
Elsie is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Elsie?
Famous People Named Elsie
- Elsie de Wolfe — American interior decorator
- Elsie Fisher — American actress (Eighth Grade)
- Elsie Clews Parsons — American sociologist and anthropologist
Similar Names to Elsie
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Sibling Name Ideas for Elsie
Looking for names that pair well with Elsie? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Elsie mean?
Elsie is a girl name of Scottish / Hebrew origin meaning "Pledged to God." Elsie originated as a Scottish diminutive of Elizabeth, which derives from the Hebrew Elisheva, meaning "my God is an oath" or "pledged to God." It emerged as an independent name in Scotland in the 18th century and spread throughout the English-speaking world during the Victorian era.
How do you pronounce Elsie?
Elsie is pronounced EL-see. Common variations include Elsi, Elsy, Ailsa.
Is Elsie a girl name?
Yes, Elsie is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include El, Ellie.