Giselle

girlGermanicChristian

Giselle is a girl name of Germanic, via French origin, meaning “Pledge”.

MeaningPledge
GenderGirl
OriginGermanic, via French
Pronunciationjih-ZEL
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inUnited States, Mexico, Brazil, France

Meaning and origin of Giselle

Giselle is the French form of the Germanic name Gisela, from gisil, 'pledge', perhaps in the sense of a noble child given as a hostage to secure an alliance. Gisela was used in Carolingian royal families. The name gained its romantic image from the ballet Giselle (1841), about a peasant girl who dies of a broken heart. It is now popular in the US and Latin America.

Is Giselle a religious name?

Giselle is a general name; Blessed Gisela, wife of Saint Stephen of Hungary, gives the root form a Catholic association.

How popular is Giselle?

Popular among Hispanic families in the US and across Latin America.

Gifts with the name Giselle

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Spellings and variants of Giselle

GiseleGiselaGizellaGisselle

Names similar to Giselle

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Giselle mean?

Giselle means 'Pledge'. It is of Germanic, via French origin.

Does Giselle have a religious meaning?

Giselle is a general name; Blessed Gisela, wife of Saint Stephen of Hungary, gives the root form a Catholic association.

How do you pronounce Giselle?

Giselle is pronounced jih-ZEL.

Is Giselle a boy or girl name?

Giselle is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.