Liz

Liz is a feminine given name, typically a short form of Elizabeth. As a standalone name, it is also used in many English-speaking countries. The name Elizabeth derives from Hebrew Elisheba, commonly interpreted as meaning “God is my oath” or “God is abundance,” and Liz has become a widely recognized nickname and given-name form in its own right. Variants and related names include Liza, Eliza, Lizzie, and Lizette, among others.

In usage, Liz is often chosen for its casual, approachable feel. It appears in literature, film, and music as both a nickname and a given name, sometimes reflecting a character’s informal or friendly persona. Because it originated as a diminutive, many people named Elizabeth are formally known as Elizabeth in official contexts and Liz in everyday life.

Notable real people and fictional characters associated with the name include Liz Truss, Elizabeth Mary Truss, who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in 2022, and Liz Cheney, American politician and attorney. In fiction, Liz Lemon is a central character on the television series 30 Rock, further popularizing the name in modern media. The name Liz also appears in various cultural references, often conveying a down-to-earth or personable image.

Overall, Liz functions primarily as a nickname for Elizabeth but has established itself as a recognizable given name in its own right, with broad cross-cultural and media presence.