The name Elsie is enjoying a resurgence, capturing the hearts of parents seeking a vintage yet modern name for their daughters. But what is the meaning of Elsie, and where does it come from? This article explores the history, meaning, and popularity of this charming name.
Elsie Name Meaning
The beautiful name Elsie carries a profound meaning: "God is my oath" or "God is satisfaction." This powerful definition imbues the name with a sense of faith, trust, and contentment, making it a meaningful choice for parents with strong spiritual values.
Origins of the Name Elsie
Elsie boasts English and Scottish origins, serving as a diminutive, or shortened, form of the classic name Elizabeth. Its appearance in 18th-century literature cemented its place in the naming lexicon, and it has remained a beloved option for girls ever since. The link to Elizabeth gives Elsie a sense of tradition and timelessness.
Popularity of the Name Elsie
Elsie experienced a golden age of popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The data clearly reflects this peak. Looking at the provided name birth data, Elsie reached its highest ranks in the United States between 1910 and 1920. Specifically:
- 1910: Rank 44, with 2,123 births, representing 0.603% of all births.
- 1911: Rank 41, with 2,213 births, representing 0.5943% of all births.
- 1915: Rank 41, with 4,958 births, representing 0.5457% of all births.
Following World War II, like many vintage names, Elsie’s popularity waned, reaching lows in the late 20th century. However, the 21st century has witnessed a remarkable comeback for Elsie, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Recent years show a strong upward trend:
- 2017: Rank 294, with 1,050 births, representing 0.0752% of all births.
- 2018: Rank 268, with 1,159 births, representing 0.0844% of all births.
- 2019: Rank 239, with 1,266 births, representing 0.0935% of all births.
- 2020: Rank 243, with 1,180 births, representing 0.0927% of all births.
- 2021: Rank 216, with 1,252 births, representing 0.1024% of all births.
- 2022: Rank 188, with 1,536 births, representing 0.1164% of all births.
- 2023: Rank 163, with 1,743 births, representing 0.1347% of all births.
This data confirms that Elsie is not just a fleeting trend but a name steadily regaining its prominence. The District of Columbia also demonstrates the name’s popularity with consistent appearance in top names over the years.
Elsie: A Vintage Name for a Modern World
The revival of Elsie speaks to a broader trend of embracing vintage names that offer both a connection to the past and a sense of individuality. Elsie perfectly embodies this, providing a classic sound with a fresh and contemporary feel. Parents looking for something unique yet familiar will find Elsie an excellent choice.
Names Similar to Elsie
If you’re drawn to Elsie, consider these related names:
- Elizabeth: The classic, full version of Elsie, meaning "God is my oath" (Hebrew origin).
- Elsa: A popular alternative with a similar sound, also meaning "God’s promise; God is my oath" (Hebrew origin).
- Else: A simple and elegant option, sharing the meaning "God’s promise; God is my oath" (Hebrew origin).
- Elsee: Another variant, carrying the same beautiful meaning as Else (Hebrew origin).
- Elsy: A Scottish variant of Elsie, also carrying the meaning of "God’s promise; God is my oath".
Siblings of Elsie
Parents who choose the name Elsie often select these names for their other children:
- Ezekiel: Meaning "God will strengthen" (Hebrew origin).
- Israel: Meaning "God contends" (Hebrew origin).
- Christian: Meaning "Follower of Christ" (Latin origin).
- Samuel: Meaning "Name of God" (Hebrew origin).
- Layla: Meaning "Night" (Arabic origin).
- Liliana: Meaning "Lily flower" (English origin).
Final Thoughts on Elsie
Elsie is more than just a name; it’s a statement. It represents a blend of history, faith, and modern style. Its resurgence in popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. If you’re searching for a name that will make your little girl stand out while honoring tradition, Elsie is a truly remarkable option.