Eloise

girlGermanicChristian

Eloise is a girl name of Germanic, via French origin, meaning “Possibly healthy, wide”.

MeaningPossibly healthy, wide
GenderGirl
OriginGermanic, via French
PronunciationEL-oh-eez
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inUnited Kingdom, United States, France, Australia

Meaning and origin of Eloise

Eloise is the English form of the French Héloïse, which most scholars trace to the Germanic name Helewidis. Its elements are often explained as 'healthy' or 'whole' and 'wide', though the exact meaning is debated, and some link it instead to Louise. The name is forever tied to Héloïse, the twelfth-century French scholar and abbess famous for her love letters with the philosopher Peter Abelard. In the US it is also known from Kay Thompson's children's books about Eloise, the girl who lives at the Plaza Hotel.

Is Eloise a religious name?

Eloise has no direct religious background, though its most famous early bearer, Héloïse, became the abbess of a convent. It is used today as a classic European name.

How popular is Eloise?

Popular in Britain and climbing in the US, where it is seen as a vintage revival.

Gifts with the name Eloise

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Spellings and variants of Eloise

HéloïseHeloiseEloisaElouise

Names similar to Eloise

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Eloise mean?

Eloise means 'Possibly healthy, wide'. It is of Germanic, via French origin.

Does Eloise have a religious meaning?

Eloise has no direct religious background, though its most famous early bearer, Héloïse, became the abbess of a convent. It is used today as a classic European name.

How do you pronounce Eloise?

Eloise is pronounced EL-oh-eez.

Is Eloise a boy or girl name?

Eloise is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.