Isabella: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath)".It derives from the Hebrew word "ʾēl sh'vu'a > 'ĕlı̂ysheba‛ > Elisheva".
The name Isabella carries a rich history rooted in Hebrew culture. Derived from "ʾēl sh'vu'a > 'ĕlı̂ysheba‛ > Elisheva", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Hebrew-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Isabella
Quick facts about Isabella
Origin
Hebrew
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 Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
ʾēl sh'vu'a > 'ĕlı̂ysheba‛ > Elisheva
How to Pronounce Isabella
Isabella is pronounced /ˌɪz.əˈbɛl.ə/(Hebrew)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Is-ab-ella
Say it like: "IS-AB-ELLA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Isabella enjoys international appeal, used in 15 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, romanian, spanish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
Isabella means "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church.". The name comes from ʾēl sh'vu'a > 'ĕlı̂ysheba‛ > Elisheva. In its original form, the name derives from ʾēl (אֵל) sh'vu'a (שְׁבוּעָה) Elisheva (אלישבע) Elisábet (Ελισάβετ). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Isabella for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Isabella's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Isabella?
Isabella is a hebrew name. The name traces back to ʾēl sh'vu'a > 'ĕlı̂ysheba‛ > Elisheva. The original form ʾēl (אֵל) sh'vu'a (שְׁבוּעָה) Elisheva (אלישבע) Elisábet (Ελισάβετ) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its hebrew roots, Isabella spread to become common in english, romanian, spanish, italian and other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Isabella a boy or girl name?
Isabella is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In hebrew tradition, Isabella has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Isabella?
Isabella is pronounced "/ˌɪz.əˈbɛl.ə/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Isabella is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, romanian, spanish, 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 hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Isabella can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root ʾēl sh'vu'a > 'ĕlı̂ysheba‛ > Elisheva influences how Isabella sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Isabella?
Isabella is moderately popular with steady usage. With moderate popularity, Isabella offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Isabella's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Isabella holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Isabella commonly used?
Isabella spans multiple cultures, including english, romanian, spanish, and 12 other traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Isabella found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Isabella, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Isabella into their naming traditions. A child named Isabella 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, Isabella is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Isabella?
Isabella carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Biblical Greek “Elisábet (Ελισάβετ),” a form of the Hebrew name Elisheva (‘ĕlı̂ysheba’), which in turn is composed of two elements: the “ʾēl” (God, the God of Israel) plus “sh’ vu’a (sh-b-ʿ)” (oath). In turn, the name means “my God is an oath, my God is abundance.” shavu’ót (plural form) is a Jewish holiday that occurs in the spring, a harvest festival, also commemorating the anniversary of the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This name and its variants are spread all over the world. The name appears in the Old Testament as the name of Aaron’s wife “Elisheva,” and in the New Testament as the name of the wife of the priest Zechariah and mother of John the Baptist. Linked to this root we can find: Elizabeth I, queen regnant of England and Ireland, Elizabeth of Hungary (Erzsébet), princess of the Kingdom of Hungary and Elizabeth of Aragon (Elisabet in Catalan, Isabel in Aragonese), queen consort of Portugal, a tertiary of the Franciscan Order and is venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Isabella originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Isabella sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Isabella often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.