liisa

Liisa is a feminine given name used chiefly in Finland and Estonia. It is the local form of Elisabeth (Elizabeth) and is often treated as a distinct name in these languages. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Elisheba, traditionally interpreted as meaning “God is my oath” or “God is my abundance.”

In Estonia and Finland, Liisa has been a common choice across generations, particularly during the mid-20th century. Its continued use varies by era and region, but it remains a recognizable and culturally resonant name in these communities.

Variants and related forms include Liisi and Liis in Estonian, and Lisa as an international cognate. In Finnish contexts, Liisa is the standard spelling, with shorter forms and nicknames used informally. The name often appears alongside other Elisabeth-derived forms in official records and personal naming histories.

Cultural context: Liisa carries associations with traditional and historical naming practices in Nordic and Baltic regions. It is widely understood and easy to pronounce in these languages, contributing to its enduring presence in Estonian and Finnish naming conventions.