Elsie is a charming and unique given name of English origin. It is derived from the name Elizabeth, which has its roots in the Hebrew language and means "God is my oath" or "God is my salvation". The name Elsie is a diminutive form of Elizabeth and has been used as an independent name since the 19th century.
Elsie was first popularized by Louisa May Alcott's novel "Little Women," published in 1868. In the story, one of the main characters is named Beth, who is often referred to as Elsie by her family and friends. This portrayal helped to bring attention to the name Elsie and contributed to its growth in popularity.
Throughout history, many notable individuals have borne the name Elsie. One of the most famous was Elsie MacGill, a Canadian aeronautical engineer known for designing the Hawker Hurricane fighter aircraft during World War II. She is often referred to as Canada's first female aircraft designer and played an essential role in the war effort.
Today, Elsie continues to be a beloved name among English-speaking families. Its unique yet approachable sound makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a strong historical foundation. While its popularity has waxed and waned over the years, Elsie remains a timeless classic that pays homage to its rich origins while offering a modern twist on a traditional favorite.
In summary, Elsie is a captivating given name of English origin derived from Elizabeth, meaning "God is my oath" or "God is my salvation". Popularized by Louisa May Alcott's novel "Little Women," Elsie has been worn by notable figures such as Canadian engineer Elsie MacGill. With its charming sound and rich history, Elsie remains a beloved choice among parents today seeking a distinctive yet timeless name for their children.
The name Elsie experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the period from 1880 to 1959. Its highest point was reached in 1914 with 27 births, followed by several years of high numbers ranging between 19 and 27 births annually until 1921. However, after that peak, there was a steady decline, with fewer than 30 births per year from 1922 onwards. By the end of the period, in 1959, only 5 Elsies were born. Overall, 886 girls named Elsie were born during these years.