Else

Else is a shortened form of the biblical name Elisabeth, which means 'God is abundance' or 'God is perfection.' At the beginning of the 20th century, the name Else was very popular in Germany.

What does the name Else mean?

As a short form of Elisabeth, Else represents the meanings 'God is abundance' or 'God is perfection.' Although the name was widely used in Germany in the early 20th century, its popularity declined over time. However, in recent years, Else has experienced a revival as a girl's name. Nevertheless, the variants Elsa, Elisa, and Elise are still more sought after in Germany. Besides Germany, the name Else is also common in Scandinavia and the Netherlands. Other well-known short forms of Elisabeth include Eliza, Ella, Elle, Elli, Ellie, Elly, Elyse, Ilsa, Ilse, Isa, Liese, Lili, Lilli, Lillie, Lilly, Lisa, Lise, Lissi, and Liz.

Where does the name Else come from?

The name Else originates from the Hebrew Elischeba, which serves as a short form of Elisabeth. The Hebrew elements el, meaning 'God,' and scheba, meaning 'happiness' or 'perfection,' form the basis of the name.

How do you pronounce Else?

The pronunciation of the name Else is two syllables and clearly structured. In the German language, it is generally pronounced as 'El-se' [ˈɛlzə]. The arrangement of the consonants creates a stable sound, while the gentle ending on '-se' provides a harmonious conclusion. Else conveys a down-to-earth and traditionally shaped impression - factual, calm, and present.

When is the name day of Else?

The most significant name day for Else is celebrated on September 23.

Popularity

Else was a very common female first name in Germany for many decades. As early as the late 19th century, the name was positioned high in the rankings and reached its peak in 1919 at number 4. However, over time, the popularity of Else significantly declined. While it was still frequently mentioned until the 1920s, a noticeable decline began in the early 1930s, pushing it out of the top ranks.

Nicknames & pet names

Elia / Elis / Elly

Famous people

• Else Ahlmann-Ohlsen (fencer from Denmark)
• Else Bäck (Austrian actress)
• Else Buschheuer (German author & television presenter)
• Else Dormitzer (writer from Germany)
• Else Eckersberg (German actress)
• Else Elster (German actress)
• Else Feldmann (writer from France)
• Else Fischer-Hansen (Danish artist)
• Else Heims (German actress)
• Else Herold (German pianist)
• Else Hoppe (figure skater from Germany)
• Else Jacobsen (Danish swimmer)
• Else Kienle (doctor from Germany)
• Else Knake (doctor from Germany)
• Else Koch (Dutch writer)
• Else Levy (German doctor)
• Else Liefmann (doctor from Germany)
• Else Ludwig (German actress)
• Else Stock-Hug (pianist)
• Else Thoresen (Finnish badminton player)