Eliseo

Meaning & origin

Eliseo is a Spanish and Italian form of the biblical name Elisha, deeply rooted in Judeo-Christian tradition as the name of a prophet who succeeded Elijah. In the United States, Eliseo has been in use since at least 1880, but its trajectory has shifted markedly over time. After a period of low usage, the name began a steady rise in 1987, and by 2025 it had reached its peak rank of 550th, with approximately 1 in 3,123 male newborns receiving the name. This resurgence is largely driven by Hispanic communities in states like New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona, where the name remains a familiar and culturally resonant choice. The name’s meaning, 'God is my salvation,' connects it to a rich religious heritage, while its melodic sound and accessible nickname options (Eli, Leo) have helped it appeal to a modern audience seeking a name with historical depth and cross-cultural flexibility.

Eliseo is the Spanish and Italian form of Elisha, a biblical name from the Hebrew 'Elisha' (אֱלִישָׁע), meaning 'God is salvation.' In the Old Testament, Elisha was a prophet and successor of Elijah. The name has been used in Christian Europe since the Middle Ages, with particular popularity in Spanish-speaking countries. Its use in the United States has grown steadily among Hispanic communities.