Elisabetta
Feminine
Italian
Meaning & Origin
EtymologyElisabetta is the Italian form of Elizabeth, which derives from the Greek Elisabet, itself from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning "my God is an oath." The name is composed of the elements ʾel (God) and shavaʿ (oath). In the Old Testament, Elisheba appears as the wife of Aaron, while in the New Testament, Elizabeth is the mother of John the Baptist. The name was borne by Saint Elizabeth of Hungary (1207–1231), who used her royal wealth to aid the poor, and later by Queen Elizabeth I of England (r. 1558–1603), which popularized it in England. In Italy, the name has been common since the Middle Ages, often used in honor of these saints and rulers.Notable BearersSeveral Italian women named Elisabetta have achieved prominence. Elisabetta Gonzaga (1471–1526) was a duchess and cultural patron of the Renaissance, celebrated for her virtue and learning. Elisabetta de Gambarini (1730–1765) was a versatile English composer and performer of Italian origin. Elisabetta Grimani (died 1792) was the wife of Doge Ludovico Manin, the last Doge of Venice. Elisabetta Querini (1628–1709) was also a dogaressa. Modern figures include Elisabetta Casellati (born 1946), the first female president of the Italian Senate; television presenters Elisabetta Gardini (born 1956); children's author Elisabetta Dami (born 1958), creator of Geronimo Stilton; runner Elisabetta Artuso (born 1974); and opera soprano Elisabetta Barbato (1921–2014).Related FormsItalian Elisabetta has several diminutives, including Bettina, Elisa, and Lisa. Other language variants include Elisabeth (Swedish), Elisabet (Swedish), Isabel (Spanish), Lisbeth (Danish), and Elixabete (Basque).Meaning: „my God is an oath“Origin: Hebrew, via Greek and Latin into ItalianType: First name, feminineUsage: Italy