Ilze is a Latvian short form of Elizabete, the Latvian form of Elizabeth. This diminutive has been used as a standalone given name in Latvia and Scandinavia since at least the 15th century, with the earliest known recording of a Latvian bearer in 1458. It is cognate with the German given name Ilse. Derived from the Greek Elisabet and ultimately the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning "my God is an oath," Elizabeth has strong biblical roots. In the Old Testament, Elisheba was the wife of Aaron, and in the New Testament, Elizabeth was the mother of John the Baptist. Across Europe, the name gained popularity through figures like Saint Elizabeth of Hungary and Queen Elizabeth I of England. Different cultures have developed many variants and diminutives, among the Latvian ones: Elīza and Elza as related forms. Ilze remains a popular name in Latvia. Notable bearers include Ilze Bērziņa, a Latvian chess player and Woman Grandmaster; Ilze Graubiņa, a pianist; Ilze Indriksone, a politician; Ilze Jaunalksne, a journalist; and Ilze Liepa (born in Russia), a ballet dancer and actress. Other examples span multiple fields and nationalities, attesting to the name's broad cultural resonance. Meaning: short form of Elizabete, ultimately from Hebrew Elisheva meaning "my God is an oath" Origin: Latvian (with Germanic influence) Type: diminutive of a biblical name, used independently Usage: primarily Latvian and Scandinavian