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Elizabeth is a classic and timeless name that embodies royalty and has always remained in vogue. Since it’s a tad long, most parents consider nicknames for Elizabeth. This beautiful name is of Hebrew origin and means “God is my oath.” After the reign of the UK’s Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century and Queen Elizabeth II in the 20th and early 21st centuries, this name has become well-known around the world. Many short versions of Elizabeth, such as Eliza, Bettany, or Beth, have now evolved as famous first names. It would not be easy to list all the famous people with the name Elizabeth because of the immense popularity the name carries.
If you would like to name your little princess Elizabeth or have been looking for nicknames for this name, we could help you choose one. Scroll down.
85 Short Names Or Nicknames For Elizabeth, With Meanings
Here is the list of nicknames for Elizabeth, including creative, trendy, and other European versions of the original name. To choose the right nickname for your daughter, consider your cultural background, your child’s personality, and your family’s traditions. For instance, if you have a Spanish background, consider Belita or Isa. If your daughter is cheerful, pick Bee. But if your family prefers classic nicknames, pick Eliza or Bella. Regardless of your background and your child’s personality, you will find a nickname that suits her in this list.
1. Abby
The nickname Abby is derived from Elizabeth by removing a few syllables. How, you ask? The middle part of Elizabeth is -abe, which gives way to Abby.
2. Babette
Usually, French-origin names ending with ‘-ette’ are diminutive forms. Babette is, therefore, an adorable European nickname for Elizabeth. It is used in French, Dutch, German, and English.
3. Bea
This versatile English, Hungarian, and Dutch name, sounding like the letter ‘B,’ would be a unique nickname for Elizabeth. Bea is also commonly used as a diminutive for Beatrice or Beata, meaning ‘traveler’ and ‘blessed,’ respectively.
4. Bee
Bee is a nature-derived nickname for Elizabeth that is short and sweet. You can choose this name for your child to represent her cheerful and happy-go-lucky personality.
5. Beta
The Greek alphabet is a fun nickname for a Math-pro bearing the name Elizabeth. Beta is also the Slovak diminutive of Alzbeta, the Portuguese short form for Elisabete, and the Romansh variant of Betta, all of which are regional variants of Elizabeth.
6. Betuska
It is a diminutive of the Czech version of Elizabeth, Alzbeta. It is quite a rare choice for a given name and a nickname.
7. Belita
With a Spanish touch, this nickname for Elizabeth sounds classic and royal at the same time. It is said that this Basque name was first recorded in the Navarre region of Spain in the 14th century.
8. Belize
This Scottish-inspired nickname crosses the syllables of the first name. If you think this nickname sounds familiar, let us remind you that Belize is also the name of a country in Central America. Wouldn’t that make it a fun nickname for your Elizabeth?
9. Belle
The popular first name Belle works as a nickname for Elizabeth too. This pet name also means ‘beautiful’ and is often used as a nickname for Isabella as well.
Trivia10. Bess
England prospered during the reign of Elizabeth I, making her the ‘Good Queen Bess’ (1). Apart from being the diminutive form of Elizabeth, Bess also means ‘God is my oath.’
11. Bessie
It is another version of the nickname Betty inspired by the famous Jazz singer Bessie Smith (2). The nickname Bessie also associated with the first female African American and Native American aviator Elizabeth “Bessie” Coleman (3).
12. Bet
Bet is a simple pet name formed by cutting down the name itself. It is simple and modern, a perfect nickname for a spunky little girl named Elizabeth.
13. Beth
The second syllable of the name Elizabeth is a cute pet name by itself. The name has been immortalized thanks to its literary counterparts, Elizabeth “Beth” March from Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and Elizabeth “Beth” Harmon from the novel and TV miniseries The Queen’s Gambit.
14. Bethan
It is the Welsh version of Elizabeth. It is quite an unusual choice for a nickname, pronounced BETH-an.
15. Bethee
Although a short name for Bethel, Bethee goes well for Elizabeth too. It is quite unique and its meaning, ‘House of God,’ because of it’s spiritual association, works well with Elizabeth.
16. Betsy
It is a self-contained nickname with a retro touch and can also be spelled as ‘Betsie,’ ‘Bets,’ or ‘Betsey.’ It was a popular name in the late 1930’s to the 1960’s, ranking among the top 300 names in the US (4). The name is also famously associated with Elizabeth Griscom Ross, or Betsy Ross, the woman credited with sewing the first US flag (5).
17. Bette
It is an unusual nickname for Betty, which is the diminutive form of Elizabeth. The nickname was most popularly used by ‘The First Lady of the American Screen,’ actress Elizabeth “Bette” Davis (6).
18. Bettina
The short name Bettina is taken from the Italian version of Elizabeth, that is, Elisabetta. It is commonly used in German, Italian, and Hungarian.
19. Betty
Pioneering American actress Betty White and Archie’s comic book character, Betty Cooper, have made this nickname for Elizabeth quite popular (7).
Did you know?20. Billie
A neutral nickname for Elizabeth, Billie has gained popularity after the singers Billie Joe and Billie Eilish. Of course, we cannot forget one of the most famous tennis players in history, Billie Jean King (8).
21. Birdy
It is an unusual diminutive form of Elizabeth that can also be spelled as Birdie. It is popular among those parents who love nature.
22. Bizzy
It is the alternative version of the pet name Lizzy. Is your child a busy little girl, jumping from one task to another? If her name is Elizabeth, you can call her Bizzy Lizzy.
23. Buffy
Although Buffy first originated as a nickname for Elizabeth, it became a famous name in its own right after the main character, Buffy Summers, of the drama series Buffy The Vampire Slayer. You can also spell it as ‘Buffie.’
24. Effy
Apart from being a Greek-origin pet name for Elizabeth, Effy or Effie also means ‘articulated’ and ‘polite.’ This connotation for Effy comes from its association with the name Euphemia.
25. Ela
Ela means ‘hazel’ in Turkish, ‘terebinth tree’ in Hebrew, and ‘cardamom,’ in Sanskrit. However, this diminutive version of Elizabeth, used in Slovene, Croatian, Serbian, and Polish, is formed by taking the word ‘El,’ and can also be spelled as ‘Ella.’
26. Elisa
Also spelled as Elizza, the stylish nickname is inspired by the first Queen of Carthage, Dido, whose first name was initially Elissa (9).
27. Elise
The French pet name for Elizabeth can also be spelled as ‘Elize.’ It is also widely used in German, Norwegian, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Dutch, and English.
28. Elixane
The nickname is inspired by the Basque version of Elizabeth, Elixabete. If you have a Spanish background and want a unique nickname for your little Elizabeth, Elixane can be a great choice.
29. Eliza
The nickname Eliza is simply the short version of the name Elizabeth. From prolific poet Eliza Cook to the famous fictional character Eliza Doolittle from G. B. Shaw’s Pygmalion, the name has been immortalized in history (10). It is a popular given name its own right, ranking among the top 150 names in the US since 2017 (11).
30. Eliza-B
The name takes its inspiration from the rapper Cardi-B. If your little Elizabeth loves listening to rap music, this can be the perfect nickname for her.
31. Elize
It is a classy and simple name derived from cutting down a few syllables of Elizabeth. It may seem rare in English, but this diminutive is widely used among Dutch, Afrikaans, Flemish, and Latvian speakers.
32. Elle
Inspired by the French pronoun, ‘Elle’ means ‘she.’ The name is a unique take as a nickname for Elizabeth.
33. Ellie
It is an English variant of ‘Elly’ and also works as a nickname for Ellen or Elenor. Ellie Goulding, the English pop singer, is a famous personality with this name.
34. Elsa
The most recent popular nickname for Elizabeth after the famous ice queen in the animated Disney film Frozen. The name is also famously associated with Italian-born French fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli (12).
35. Elsie
Elsie or Ellsie is a nickname for the Scottish version of Elizabeth, that is, Elisabet. It is also used by Swedish and English speakers.
36. Elsy
It is the diminutive form of the Scottish version of Elizabeth, Elspet. It is pronounced EHL-see and is also used by Swedish and Latin American Spanish speakers.
37. Elza
The German pet name of Elizabeth can also be written as Aliza or Eliza. It means ‘noble.’ It is also used as a Portuguese, Latvian, Hungarian, and Georgian diminutive for Elizabeth.
38. Etta
Etta has a funny touch to it and is a Scottish baby name. Originally, it was a nickname for Henrietta.
39. Highness
The name Elizabeth gained popularity due to Queen Elizabeth I. Taking inspiration from her, this can be an empowering nickname for your little princess.
40. Hurley
The name is derived from the actress and model Elizabeth “Liz” Hurley.
41. Ibby
The pet name is inspired by the ‘Beth’ part of Elizabeth. It also works well for Isobel.
42. Ilsa
It is an alternative German version of the nickname Ilse, which is the a German and Dutch diminutive for Elizabeth.
43. Isa
The name is the short version of Isabella or Isabel, which is the Spanish version of Elizabeth. Also, in German, Isa means ‘strong.’ It can also be spelled as ‘Issa.’
44. Isabeau
Beau is a common ending for French nicknames, which, when tagged along with Elizabeth’s Spanish version Isabel, can make for a fabulous nickname.
45. Isabella
Although a common first name, this Italian or Latinate version of Elizabeth is also an ideal nickname. The name is also widely used in German, English, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Finnish, Dutch, and Romanian. It is a massively popular first name in the US, consistently ranking among the Top 10 names since 2004 (13).
Quick fact46. Isabelita
It is an alternative form of the name Isabella. Isabelita is most commonly used by Spanish speakers.
47. Isla
Isla is a Spanish origin name used as the diminutive form of Isabella. It is a popular name in England and Wales and also means ‘island’ (14). It is most famously associated with Australian actress Isla Fisher.
48. Isobel
It is an alternative form of Elizabeth’s Spanish version, Isabel. The name has gained modern popularity thanks to the character Isobel “Izzie” Stevens from the drama series Grey’s Anatomy.
49. Izzie
It is a popular nickname for Elizabeth in the US. Izzie, also spelled as Izzy, could be the nickname for Isobel, Isabel, and Isabella, too.
50. Izzie T
It is the pet version of the name Elizabeth Taylor, referring to the legendary actress and co-founder of the American Foundation for AIDS Research (15).
51. Izzo
It is another variant of Lizzo, a pet name inspired by the Liz part of Elizabeth. It is a short and funky nickname, a distinctive choice for your little girl if she has a quirky personality.
52. Lea
As a nickname for Elizabeth, Lea can also be spelled as ‘Leah’ or ‘Leia.’ It is a name famous for the Star Wars character Princess Leia.
53. Lettie
Lettie may sound like an old lady name, but it is fun and sassy in its own way. It is another version of the nickname Betty. It is also the diminutive form of the Latin name Latitia, which means ‘joy.’ The name is also associated with devotional author and missionary Lettie Burd Cowman (16).
54. Lib
Lib is a short, sweet, and unpredictable nickname for Elizabeth. Its trendy variations include Libs and Libby.
55. Libby
The name Libby, although not famous, is an eccentric nickname for Elizabeth. This name has been gaining popularity in England in recent times. Its popular variations are Libbie, Libi, and Libby-anne.
56. Liddy
Liddy can be used as a nickname for Elizabeth. It is also a topographical first name referring to a woman from the Iron Age kingdom of Lydia.
57. Liesl
The German-origin nickname for Elizabeth gained popularity after the famous character Liesl Von Trapp from The Sound Of Music. The nickname is pronounced LEE-zəl.
58. Lil-B
The nickname for the Italian version Isabella follows the current trend of various artist’s stage names. So, if your daughter Elizabeth is a budding rockstar or rapper, Lil-B may be the best nickname for her.
59. Lilibet
It is a love-filled nickname for Elizabeth and Lily. It was the family nickname for Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch (17).
60. Lilli
Even though Lilli is a name in its own right, it works well as a nickname for Elizabeth. This popular pet or first name is common in Britain.
61. Lisa
Lisa is a popular nickname for Elizabeth that would also remind of the aesthetic beauty of Lisa Gherardini, the muse of the painting Mona Lisa (18).
62. Lisbet
Lisbet is a German-origin nickname for Elizabeth. It is also a Scandinavian nickname for Elisabet, the Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian version of Elizabeth.
Trivia63. Lise
It is the alternative version of the nickname Liz. It is widely used by French, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and English speakers, although they pronounce it differently. For instance, it is pronounced LEEZ in French, LEE-seh in Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish, and LEES in English.
64. Lisett
This nickname is derived by removing the -e from the French suffix ‘-ette,’ giving it a Spanish twist. Lisett is used widely by Latin American Spanish speakers.
65. Liz
It is the first nickname that pops into our mind for Elizabeth. It is short, sweet, and a classic pet name for a little girl named Elizabeth. It was famously carried by actress Elizabeth “Liz” Taylor.
66. Liza
It is a popular short form of the nickname Eliza. This stylish name is usually used as an alternative form of Lisa. Liza is famously associated with award-winning actress, singer, and dancer Liza Minelli.
67. Liza-Boo
Boo is a popular nickname suffix, and it works well for Elizabeth, too. Consider using it for your little one if she’s a fan of all things cute and spooky.
68. Lizbeth
Apart from being a classy nickname for Elizabeth, Lizbeth also has Mexican origins and means ‘mother.’
69. Lizina
The syllable ‘-ina’ makes for a great nickname for Elizabeth. It is quite an uncommon choice and will definitely help your little Elizabeth stand out.
70. Lizzie
This pet name is incredibly common in the US. It became quite popular after the Disney sitcom Lizzie McGuire.
Claire Witt, a mother of three and a vlogger from the UK, shares a few masculine and feminine names she is considering for her third baby. One of the names is Elizabeth, she says, “A girl name which I absolutely love, but I’m not sure if we’d use it but I really love Elizabeth. It is just really pretty, and I really love Lizzie. I think that’s a lovely shorter name, and I’m not really into shortening names. I can imagine a little Elizabeth toddling along (i).”
71. Lizzo
It is another version of the nickname Liz. It is famously used as a stage name by Grammy-winning rapper and singer Lizzo, although her first name is Melissa, not Elizabeth.
72. Lydda
This nickname looks at the name Elizabeth from a different perspective. It is a variant of Liza. However, from a Biblical perspective, it is the name of a historical location in Israel (19).
73. Queen Bee
Inspired by the latest trend of adding adjectives to one’s name, this is a trendy nickname for the name Elizabeth. If your daughter is a little diva, praised by family and friends, this would be a perfect nickname for her.
74. Queen E
A short and eccentric version, Queen E is an ideal in-fashion nickname for your daughter Elizabeth.
75. Tibby
It is an unusual possibility as a nickname for Elizabeth. It is more commonly used as a nickname for Tabitha, but it can work for Elizabeth as well, especially if you like unisex nicknames.
76. Tess
This uncommon nickname for Elizabeth derives from the ‘Beth’ part. Tess is also used as a nickname for Teresa or Theresa, and became a well-known first name choice from Thomas Hardy’s novel Tess of the D’Urbervilles.
77. Tetty
It is an adorable alternative version of Betty. It is hardly used in modern times as it is an archaic version, but if you want an offbeat nickname for your daughter, Tetty can be a standout choice.
78. Thea
The Greek origin nickname Thea, also spelled as ‘Theia’, refers to the ‘Goddess of light’ in Greek mythology (20). Thea can be used as a nickname for Elizabeth based on the last th- sound.
79. Yza
It is a nickname for the Spanish version of the name Isabella. It can also be considered the short form of the nickname Lyza and can be a cool choice for a spunky child.
80. Zabby
Inspired by ‘-zab,’ this pet name is a unique take on Elizabeth. It has a gender-neutral sound to it, making it a good choice for a tomboyish little girl named Elizabeth.
81. Zabella
This Spanish version of Elizabeth has a stylish ring to it. It is also used by Ligurian speakers in Italy, making it an unusual nickname choice for a nickname.
82. Zea
This Latin origin name means ‘grain’ or ‘wheat,’ and would make an unusual pet name for Elizabeth. Pick this one if you are looking for something short and unconventional.
83. Zella
A unique nickname for Elizabeth. This pet name also means ‘happy’ or ‘blessed’ from the name Zelda or ‘grey battle maid,’ from the name Griselda. If Liza and Eliza are too common for your choice, Zella will make a cool nickname for Elizabeth.
84. Zibby
A creative name for Elizabeth, Zibby is quite distinctive and is a variant of Libby. It is a twist on the ‘-zabeth-’ part of the name.
85. Zizi
This pet name is the purest loving name for Elizabeth. It is an adorable choice and sounds modern as well, making it a good pick for your little firecracker.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Illustration: Unusual Short Names Or Nicknames For Elizabeth
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do people use nicknames for Elizabeth?
People sometimes prefer a nickname for Elizabeth because it is a long name, and they may select a shorter name. These nicknames can be funny, goofy, or sweet, and they do not affect a child’s personality or hurt their feelings.
2. How do people come up with nicknames for Elizabeth?
Nicknames for Elizabeth are well-known and frequently used. Famous people inspire some, and others have biblical roots.
3. Can using a nickname for Elizabeth be seen as a sign of disrespect?
Nicknames are generally used out of affection and love. However, parents should research the meaning of the nickname and determine its acceptability in society before choosing one for their baby.
4. What are some cultural variations of Elizabeth?
Elizabeth, being a classic feminine name with ancient Hebrew origins, has numerous variations in different languages and cultures. Some well-known ones are Isabel in Spanish, Isabeau in French, Liesel in German, Liliana in Czech, and Elspeth in Scottish.
5. Who are some famous people named Elizabeth?
Besides the two monarchs of the UK, numerous famous personalities have carried the name Elizabeth. These include celebrated yesteryear actor Elizabeth Taylor, English poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and producer, director, and actor Elizabeth Banks.
Elizabeth is a Hebrew origin biblical name that embodies royalty. This name gained popularity after the supremacy of Queen Elizabeth II in the world. Depending on your child’s personality, you may choose nicknames for Elizabeth from various origins and meanings. Beta, Bee, Belle, Belize, Bess, Beth, Ela, Eliza, etc., are some of the common nicknames for Elizabeth. Liza, Zibby, Zizi, and Zella are also nicknames for Elizabeth. You may also create shortened or native versions of Elizabeth to personalize a nickname.
Infographic: Fun Nicknames For The Royal Name Elizabeth
Elizabeth has been one of the most popular names for centuries, mainly due to its royal history and associated lineage. But today, you can also find many nicknames and short versions of this name that are easy to say. Check out the infographic below for some fascinating, unique nicknames for Elizabeth that you may choose for your little one. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- Elizabeth is a traditional Hebrew name that means ‘God is my oath.’ It has been popular for centuries and across numerous countries and cultures.
- The name was popular during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, associating it with nobility and royalty.
- Bea, Belle, Bessie, Beth, and Betty are some common nicknames for Elizabeth.
- Nicknames for Elizabeth can come from various languages and cultures. The French Babette or the Welsh Bethan are examples of meaningful diminutives.
- Parents can create unique nicknames by creatively shortening or rearranging the letters in Elizabeth.
Delve into the intriguing world of Elizabeth’s nicknames in this video. Uncover the most favored moniker that has captured hearts and stood the test of time. Uncover the history and significance behind this.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Baby names we love and might use! || boy & girl || baby #3.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tLd4z25Ux8
References
- Elizabeth I (r.1558-1603).
https://www.royal.uk/elizabeth-i - Bessie Smith.
https://nmaahc.si.edu/lgbtq/bessie-smith - Bessie Coleman.
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/bessie-coleman - Popularity of name Betsy.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Betsy Ross.
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/betsy-ross - Bette Davis.
https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/d/da-dn/bette-davis/ - Betty White.
https://www.pbs.org/wnet/pioneers-of-television/pioneering-people/betty-white/ - Billie Jean King.
https://www.womenofthehall.org/inductee/billie-jean-king/ - Dido.
https://www.worldhistory.org/Dido/ - Eliza Cook.
https://poets.org/poet/eliza-cook - Popularity of name Eliza.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Elsa Schiaparelli (1890–1973).
https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/elsa/hd_elsa.htm - Popularity of name Isabella.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/ - Baby names in England and Wales: 2021
https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/livebirths/bulletins/babynamesenglandandwales/2021 - Elizabeth Taylor.
https://californiamuseum.org/inductee/elizabeth-taylor/ - Cowman Charles Elmer (1864-1924) and Lettie [Burd] (1870-1960).
https://www.bu.edu/missiology/missionary-biography/c-d/cowman-charles-elmer-1864-1924-and-lettie-burd-1870-1960/ - The Birth of a Princess: How Princess ‘Lilibet’ Became Queen Elizabeth II.
https://www.londonmintoffice.org/blog/24-royalty/297-the-birth-of-a-princess-how-princess-lilibet-became-queen-elizabeth-ii - This Day in History: June 15.
https://www.italianartsociety.org/2017/06/lisa-gherardini-aka-mona-lisa-the-wife-of-florentine-cloth-merchant-francesco-del-giocondo-was-born-on-15-june-1479-in-florence/ - Lydda.
https://bibleatlas.org/lydda.htm - Theia goddess of shining.
https://www.greek-gods.org/titans/theia.php
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