Elza

Meaning & origin

The name Elza first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1880, the earliest year of Social Security data, and it is usually given to girls. Its peak year was 1880, when it ranked at its highest but still infrequently used. Despite its long history, Elza has never achieved widespread popularity, and its trajectory has remained stable from 1880 to 2025. The name is a variant of Elsa or Aliza, both of Hebrew origin, and it carries the meaning of 'God is my oath' or 'joyful.' While Elza has not been recorded in any top states, it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth and a straightforward pronunciation. In recent years, Elza has seen a modest uptick in interest, likely influenced by the popularity of similar names like Elsa and Eliza, but it remains a rare find.

Elza is most commonly considered a variant of Elsa, a short form of Elizabeth, which derives from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning 'God is my oath.' Alternatively, it may be connected to the Hebrew name Aliza, meaning 'joyful.' The name has been used in various European countries, particularly in Hungary and Poland, and gained some popularity in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.