Holding steady.
Popularity of Liisa since 1949
Babies named Liisa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 5 |
| 1950s | 69 |
| 1960s | 173 |
| 1970s | 114 |
| 1980s | 61 |
| 1990s | 5 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Liisa, the Finnish equivalent of Elizabeth or Lisa, has a gentle, melodic sound that feels both classic and understated. First recorded in the U.S. in 1949, it reached its highest usage in 1962, after which it settled into a stable, low-profile presence. The name is deeply familiar in Finland, where it has been a staple for generations. While it never broke into the U.S. top 1000, its steady usage reflects a quiet but enduring appeal among families of Finnish heritage. Liisa's straightforward spelling and pronunciation make it accessible internationally, yet it retains a distinct cultural identity.
Liisa is the Finnish form of Lisa, which itself derives from Elisheba (Hebrew), meaning 'God is my oath' or 'God is abundance.' The name has been used in Finland since the 19th century and remains a classic choice.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lii, Lisi
Sibling names for Liisa
Names that share Liisa's style, for a brother or sister.
