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Ilse
1. Ilse name meaning and origin
The name Ilse, predominantly found in Germanic cultures, is a shortened form of the name Elisabeth (English: Elizabeth). The name Elisabeth itself originated from Hebrew 'Elisheva,' meaning 'my God is an oath' or 'my God is abundance.' The transformation from Elisabeth to Ilse exemplifies the common linguistic practice of creating diminutives or pet names that evolve into independent given names.
Ilse gained particular popularity in Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavian countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While it shares its roots with other Elisabeth derivatives such as Elsa, Ilsa, and Lisa, Ilse has maintained its distinct identity and cultural associations throughout European history. The name's continued usage reflects its enduring appeal as both a traditional and elegant feminine name with strong historical foundations.
2. Ilse name popularity
Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Ilse
United States
United Kingdom
Ilse is a feminine name with Germanic origins. Though present in both the United States and the United Kingdom, it has remained relatively uncommon in both countries, never appearing among the top-ranked names in either nation according to available data. The name derives from a short form of Elisabeth or other names containing the Germanic element "il" meaning "noble."
Despite its low statistical presence, Ilse carries cultural significance in German-speaking regions where it enjoys greater popularity. Its distinctive sound and European heritage may appeal to parents seeking a name with continental flair while remaining straightforward to pronounce. The name also appears in literary works, including Mann's "The Magic Mountain," lending it intellectual and artistic associations.
3. Variations and nicknames of Ilse
The name Ilse, of Germanic origin, has evolved across different cultures and languages, creating a variety of beautiful spelling variants. Originally a shortened form of Elisabeth or Adelaide, Ilse is particularly popular in German-speaking regions. The most common variants include Ilsa, Ilsabe, Ilsabé, Ilse-Marie, and Ilselotte. In Scandinavian countries, the spelling often appears as Ylse or Ilze, while Eastern European variations include Ilsa and Ilza. The Dutch sometimes use Ilske, and in Frisian communities, Ilske and Ylske are common alternatives. The name maintained its popularity throughout the 20th century in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands, though international usage has fluctuated over time.
Beyond its formal variants, Ilse has generated numerous endearing nicknames and diminutives. Close friends and family might use the affectionate forms Ilschen or Ilsi in German-speaking regions. Other common nicknames include Ili, Illy, and Lise. In some families, especially those with German heritage, the pet names Issi, Ilka, or Ilseke are used to show affection. English speakers sometimes adopt the more anglicized Elle or Ellie as familiar forms. For those with the compound name Ilse-Marie, the nicknames Imme or Mari provide shorter alternatives. These diminutives reflect the name's versatility and its ability to adapt across generations and cultural boundaries, allowing individuals named Ilse to embrace different aspects of their identity throughout their lives.
4. Best name combinations with Ilse
Middle names that pair well with Ilse:
- Ilse Amara
- Ilse Beatrix
- Ilse Caroline
- Ilse Dagmar
- Ilse Elisabeth
- Ilse Freya
- Ilse Greta
- Ilse Helene
- Ilse Johanna
- Ilse Katrina
- Ilse Lorelei
- Ilse Margaux
- Ilse Nadine
- Ilse Ottilie
- Ilse Petra
- Ilse Rosalind
- Ilse Sofie
- Ilse Thora
- Ilse Valentina
- Ilse Wilhelmina
Names that go well when Ilse is used as a middle name:
- Adeline Ilse
- Birgit Ilse
- Clara Ilse
- Daphne Ilse
- Elke Ilse
- Frieda Ilse
- Giselle Ilse
- Heidi Ilse
- Ingrid Ilse
- Johanna Ilse
- Kirsten Ilse
- Liesel Ilse
- Marlene Ilse
- Nora Ilse
- Olga Ilse
- Petra Ilse
- Rebekah Ilse
- Sabine Ilse
- Theresa Ilse
- Viktoria Ilse
5. Numerology of Ilse name
Destiny Number (Expression Number):
9
I=9, L=3, S=1, E=5 → 9+3+1+5 = 18 → 1+8 = 9
The Destiny Number 9 indicates someone who is humanitarian, selfless, and compassionate. You likely have a natural ability to see the bigger picture and are drawn to helping others. In careers, you excel in positions involving teaching, healing, counseling, or creative expression. In relationships, you're loyal and giving, though sometimes you might sacrifice too much of yourself for others.
Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):
6
Vowels: I=9, E=5 → 9+5 = 14 → 1+4 = 5
With Soul Urge Number 5, your inner desire is for freedom, versatility, and new experiences. You crave variety and dislike routine. You're naturally curious and adaptable, making you well-suited for careers involving travel, communication, or frequent change. In relationships, you need space and understanding from partners who won't try to restrict your independent nature.
Personality Number:
4
Consonants: L=3, S=1 → 3+1 = 4
The Personality Number 4 shows that others perceive you as reliable, practical, and hardworking. You present yourself as organized and dependable. This energy supports careers requiring attention to detail and steadfastness. In relationships, you're seen as trustworthy and consistent, though sometimes you might appear too rigid or conventional at first glance.
Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.
6. Ilse name in pop culture
Name
Description
Ilsa Lund
Leading female character in the 1942 classic film 'Casablanca', portrayed by Ingrid Bergman who delivers the famous line 'We'll always have Paris'
Ilse Neumann
Character in the Netflix series 'Dark', portrayed by Lisa Vicari, who plays a significant role in the time-travel narrative across multiple timelines
Ilsa Faust
Female protagonist in the 'Mission: Impossible' film series, portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson, first appearing in 'Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation' (2015)
Ilse Koch
Historical figure referenced in literature and films like 'The Reader' and 'Shutter Island', nicknamed 'The Witch of Buchenwald' for her role in Nazi Germany
Ilse She-Wolf of the SS
Controversial exploitation film character from the 1975 film 'Ilsa, She Wolf of the SS', directed by Don Edmonds and portraying a fictional Nazi commandant
7. Famous people named Ilse
Name
Description
Ilse Aigner
German politician who served as Federal Minister of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection and later became President of the Landtag of Bavaria
Ilse Werner
Dutch-German actress, singer, and whistler who was popular in Germany during the 1930s and 1940s, known for films like 'Wunschkonzert'
Ilse Koch
Infamous historical figure known as 'The Witch of Buchenwald' who was convicted of war crimes following World War II
Ilse DeLange
Dutch country and pop singer, member of The Common Linnets who placed second in the Eurovision Song Contest 2014
Ilse Heylen
Belgian judoka who won a bronze medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens
Ilse Paulis
Dutch rower who won gold at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and bronze at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo
Ilse Uyttersprot
Belgian politician who served as the Mayor of Aalst from 2007 to 2012
Ilse Bing
German avant-garde and commercial photographer who worked in the photojournalistic and fashion genres, known as 'Queen of the Leica'
Ilse Salas
Mexican actress known for her roles in films like 'Güeros' and 'The Good Girls,' for which she won the Ariel Award for Best Actress
Ilse Steppat
German actress known internationally for her role as Irma Bunt in the James Bond film 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service'
8. Names similar to Ilse
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