Elgiva: a female name of Old English (Anglo-saxon) origin meaning "This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give)".It derives from the Old English (Anglo-saxon) word "ælf ġiefu / ġiefan > Ælfgifu".
The name Elgiva carries a rich history rooted in Old English (Anglo-saxon) culture. Derived from "ælf ġiefu / ġiefan > Ælfgifu", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Old English (Anglo-saxon)-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Elgiva
Quick facts about Elgiva
Origin
Old English (Anglo-saxon)
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). In turn, the name means “the gift of an elf.” 1) Ælfgifu of Northampton was the first wife of King Cnut of England and Denmark, and mother of King Harold I of England (1035–1940). She served as Queen regent of Norway from 1030 to 1035. 2) Saint Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury, also known as Saint Elgiva, was the first wife of Edmund I. 3) Ælfgifu was the consort of King Eadwig of England for a brief period until 957 or 958.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
ælf ġiefu / ġiefan > Ælfgifu
How to Pronounce Elgiva
Elgiva is pronounced /ɛlˈɡi.və/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Elgiv-a
Say it like: "ELGIV-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across spanish, italian, and anglo-Saxon (Latinized) speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
spanishitaliananglo-Saxon (Latinized)
Frequently Asked Questions About Elgiva
What does the name Elgiva mean?
Elgiva means "This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). In turn, the name means “the gift of an elf.” 1) Ælfgifu of Northampton was the first wife of King Cnut of England and Denmark, and mother of King Harold I of England (1035–1940). She served as Queen regent of Norway from 1030 to 1035. 2) Saint Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury, also known as Saint Elgiva, was the first wife of Edmund I. 3) Ælfgifu was the consort of King Eadwig of England for a brief period until 957 or 958.". The name comes from ælf ġiefu / ġiefan > Ælfgifu. This old english (anglo-saxon) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Elgiva for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). In turn, the name means “the gift of an elf.” 1) Ælfgifu of Northampton was the first wife of King Cnut of England and Denmark, and mother of King Harold I of England (1035–1940). She served as Queen regent of Norway from 1030 to 1035. 2) Saint Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury, also known as Saint Elgiva, was the first wife of Edmund I. 3) Ælfgifu was the consort of King Eadwig of England for a brief period until 957 or 958." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Elgiva's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Elgiva?
Elgiva is a old english (anglo-saxon) name. The name traces back to ælf ġiefu / ġiefan > Ælfgifu. From its old english (anglo-saxon) roots, Elgiva spread to become common in spanish, italian, anglo-Saxon (Latinized). The old english (anglo-saxon) meaning "This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). In turn, the name means “the gift of an elf.” 1) Ælfgifu of Northampton was the first wife of King Cnut of England and Denmark, and mother of King Harold I of England (1035–1940). She served as Queen regent of Norway from 1030 to 1035. 2) Saint Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury, also known as Saint Elgiva, was the first wife of Edmund I. 3) Ælfgifu was the consort of King Eadwig of England for a brief period until 957 or 958." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Elgiva a boy or girl name?
Elgiva is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, Elgiva has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). In turn, the name means “the gift of an elf.” 1) Ælfgifu of Northampton was the first wife of King Cnut of England and Denmark, and mother of King Harold I of England (1035–1940). She served as Queen regent of Norway from 1030 to 1035. 2) Saint Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury, also known as Saint Elgiva, was the first wife of Edmund I. 3) Ælfgifu was the consort of King Eadwig of England for a brief period until 957 or 958." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Elgiva?
Elgiva is pronounced "/ɛlˈɡi.və/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Elgiva is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in spanish, italian, anglo-Saxon (Latinized), where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with old english (anglo-saxon) names, listening to a native speaker say Elgiva can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Elgiva?
Elgiva is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Elgiva offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Elgiva's popularity may vary between old english (anglo-saxon) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). In turn, the name means “the gift of an elf.” 1) Ælfgifu of Northampton was the first wife of King Cnut of England and Denmark, and mother of King Harold I of England (1035–1940). She served as Queen regent of Norway from 1030 to 1035. 2) Saint Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury, also known as Saint Elgiva, was the first wife of Edmund I. 3) Ælfgifu was the consort of King Eadwig of England for a brief period until 957 or 958." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Elgiva holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Elgiva commonly used?
Elgiva is common in spanish and italian and anglo-Saxon (Latinized) naming traditions. Though old english (anglo-saxon) in origin, Elgiva found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Elgiva, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “Ælfgifu,” composed of two elements: “ælf” (elf, supernatural being) plus “ġiefu / ġiefan” (gift, to give). In turn, the name means “the gift of an elf.” 1) Ælfgifu of Northampton was the first wife of King Cnut of England and Denmark, and mother of King Harold I of England (1035–1940). She served as Queen regent of Norway from 1030 to 1035. 2) Saint Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury, also known as Saint Elgiva, was the first wife of Edmund I. 3) Ælfgifu was the consort of King Eadwig of England for a brief period until 957 or 958." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Elgiva into their naming traditions. A child named Elgiva will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Elgiva is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.