Eilis

Eilis is a feminine given name of Irish origin. It is a form of Éilis, the Irish equivalent of Elizabeth, and is commonly Anglicized as Eilis in English-language writing. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Elisheba, meaning “God is my oath.” In Ireland, traditional spellings such as Éilis and Éilís exist, with Eilis appearing as a modern Anglicized variant.

The name is most widely used in Ireland and among Irish communities abroad. In Irish-language contexts, Éilis/Éilís are standard forms, while Eilis serves as a familiar English rendering. As a result, Eilis may occur in both Irish and broader Anglophone settings.

Notable uses of the name include Eilis Dillon (1904–1994), an Irish novelist known for works in the mid-20th century. In fiction, Eilis Lacey is the protagonist of Colm Toibín’s novel Brooklyn, who is also depicted in the 2015 film adaptation. The character helped popularize the name in contemporary audiences outside Ireland.

In summary, Eilis is a culturally Irish given name linked to Elizabeth, with traditional Gaelic forms Éilis and Éilís and an Anglicized spelling that appears in Irish and international usage.