Log in · Sign up

Elisha Unisex

Popularity: #855 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationih-LIE-sha / ɪˈlaɪʃə

Hebrew; English

Meaning

Hebrew: God is salvation; English: variant of Elisha

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Elisha has its roots in the Hebrew language, derived from the name אֱלִישָׁע (Elisha), which means "God is salvation". This name is a combination of the Hebrew elements 'El', meaning "God", and 'yasha', meaning "to save" or "to deliver". The name entered the English language through the Greek form Ἐλισσαῖος (Elissaios) and the Latin Elisha, particularly during the period of the early translations of the Bible, such as the Septuagint in the 3rd century BCE and later the Vulgate in the late 4th century CE. The name was further popularized in English-speaking contexts through the King James Version of the Bible, published in 1611, which included references to Elisha as a significant prophet in the Hebrew Scriptures, succeeding Elijah and known for performing miracles and acts of faith.

Historically, Elisha is a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the books of Kings, where he is depicted as a prophet in ancient Israel during the 9th century BCE. His life and deeds are chronicled in the Hebrew Bible, where he is noted for his role in guiding the Israelites and performing miracles, such as healing the sick and raising the dead. The stories of Elisha have had a lasting impact on Jewish and Christian traditions, contributing to the name's significance in religious contexts.

Culturally, the name Elisha has been associated with themes of divine intervention and salvation, making it a symbol of hope and faith in various religious traditions. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms and related names, such as Elise or Elisha in feminine contexts, which have emerged in different cultures. The enduring legacy of Elisha in religious texts and its symbolic meanings have contributed to its continued resonance in various cultural and historical narratives.

Trend Summary

Elisha has seen a gradual increase in popularity as a girl's name in the United States.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Elisha
  • Elishah

International Variants

  • Elisa (Italian)
  • Elisheva (Hebrew)
  • Elisabeth (German)

Famous people named Elisha

Elisha Cuthbert is an actress best known for 24, The Girl Next Door, and Happy Endings.

Elisha Gray was an inventor best known for his work on the telephone and the telautograph.

Fictional characters named Elisha

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Elisha was first seen in the United States in 1914. Elisha has ranked as high as #602 nationally, which occurred in 1980, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Elisha has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Elisha (2024)

StateBirthsShare
FL 12
24%
TX 9
18%
NC 8
16%
NY 7
14%
NJ 7
14%
CA 6
12%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19145
19406
19477
19489
19499
19517
19525
19538
19545
195610
195714
19588
195925
196049
196133
196240
196354
196457
196572
196654
196776
196870
196995
1970127
1971151
1972181
1973158
1974184
1975230
1976300
1977421
1978444
1979546
1980624
1981565
1982540
1983525
1984468
1985481
1986428
1987450
1988402
1989358
1990348
1991297
1992296
1993260
1994247
1995221
1996224
1997199
1998219
1999189
2000190
2001174
2002166
2003169
2004201
2005159
2006167
2007188
2008147
2009147
2010138
2011139
2012140
2013160
2014138
2015120
2016123
2017138
2018161
2019118
202088
202181
202282
202377
202495