MallowbyNames

Gizelle

jih-ZELL · Hostage; pledge; oath. The meaning is debated; some sources connect it to the Germanic element 'gisal' (pledge, hostage).

2025 rank (girls)
#4,352
Babies named in 2025
32
Peak popularity
2005
2025 frequency
1 in 50,227 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2008

Declining since 2008, #4,352 for girls today.

Popularity of Gizelle since 1954

Babies named Gizelle per year in U.S. Social Security records.

691372061960198020002020Most births 2005Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1950s63
1960s96
1970s55
1980s89
1990s259
2000s1,278
2010s1,020
2020s271

Meaning & origin

Gizelle entered the U.S. baby name scene in 1954, modestly climbing to its peak rank of 4352 in 2005. Since 2008, its usage has steadily declined, reflecting a broader trend away from French-influenced names. As of 2025, it remains a rare choice, with about 1 in 50227 newborns receiving the name. The top states for Gizelle are Texas and California, aligning with its modest but consistent presence in diverse regions.

Gizelle is a variant of Giselle, which derives from the Old German element 'gisil' meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage'. It became established in English-speaking countries in the 19th century, partly through the ballet 'Giselle' (1841). The form Gizelle, with a 'z', emerged in the mid-20th century and has been used steadily in the United States since 1954.

Where Gizelle is most popular

Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Gigi, Zelle, Elle

Variants: Giselle, Gisèle, Gizela

Sibling names for Gizelle

Names that share Gizelle's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

G is for Gizelle, our favorite little girl.

G is for Gizelle…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Gizelle's letter becomes Gizelle's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Gizelle's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Gizelle mean?
Gizelle is a variant of Giselle, which may mean 'pledge' or 'hostage' from the Germanic element 'gisil'. The exact meaning is debated among name historians.
How popular is Gizelle right now?
As of 2025, Gizelle ranked 4352 in the U.S., with approximately 1 in 50227 newborn girls given the name that year.
Is Gizelle a boy or girl name?
Gizelle is almost exclusively used as a girl's name. The Social Security data shows it is given to girls.