Meaning, origin, history
Eloise is a feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the Occitan name Aloïs, which itself comes from the Germanic name Adalwolf, consisting of the elements adal "noble" and wulf "wolf". Therefore, Eloise could be interpreted as meaning "noble wolf".
The name Eloise has been popular throughout history, with some notable historical figures bearing this name. For instance, Éloïse d'Harcourt (1245-1310) was a French noblewoman who played a significant role in the political events of her time. She is also known for being the lover of King Philip III of France.
The name Eloise gained further popularity in literature through the works of several authors, including Alfred, Lord Tennyson's poem "Enoch Arden" and George Sand's novel "Elle et Lui". However, it was probably the fictional character Eloise McKee from the 1945 film "The Picture of Dorian Gray" that contributed most significantly to the name's popularization in English-speaking countries.
Today, Eloise remains a popular choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet classic feminine name. Its musical quality and rich historical background make it an appealing option for those looking for a meaningful and timeless name for their daughter.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Eloise since 1880
Total births
64,984
Total since 1880
Peak year
2023
2,916 births
in 2023
2,916
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+115%
↗
vs previous 5 years