Elza is a name of Hebrew origin that means "God is my oath" or "God is my promise." The name is derived from the Hebrew word "El," which means "God," and the suffix "-zah," which denotes possession. Elza is often used as a feminine given name, although it can also be used as a masculine name.
The name Elza has been popular in various cultures throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it was used among Jewish communities in Europe. In Russia, the name Elza gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with many famous figures bearing this name, such as Elza Virsaladze, a renowned pianist, and Elza Zhukova, an Olympic medalist in rhythmic gymnastics.
Today, Elza continues to be used as a given name in various countries around the world. Its popularity may have been influenced by its use in literature and popular culture, such as in the character Elza from the animated film "Frozen" by Disney. However, regardless of its popularity, Elza remains a name with deep historical roots and meaningful significance.
The name Elza has seen a significant decrease in popularity over the past century in the United States. Between 1880 and 1958, there were at least 25 births each year, with a peak of 68 births in 1922. However, between 1959 and 1972, the number of births decreased dramatically, with fewer than 10 births each year.
From 1976 onwards, there were only five births recorded each year for Elza, until it dropped off completely after 1988. In total, there have been 2111 births registered as Elza in the United States since 1880. Despite its decline in popularity, the name Elza still has a rich history and may hold personal significance for those who bear it or their families.