Isabelle

Isabelle is the Modern French form of Isabel, a name that originated as a medieval Provençal form of Elizabeth (originally used among the French, Spanish and Portuguese in the Middle Ages). France would later introduce the name to the Anglo-Saxons following the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name was further popularized owing to the fame of several women bearing this name; for instance, in the early 13th century by way of Isabella of Angoulême, a young French noblewoman who was betrothed to King John of England in 1200. Another namesake was Isabella of France (daughter of King Philip IV of France). As a girl of twelve, this Isabella was also sent to England to marry King Edward II (whom she would eventually have deposed and murdered). Another illustrious medieval Isabella was the 15th century Queen of Castile and León who famously financed Christopher Columbus’ 1492 voyage to the New World. See historic references below for more information on these memorable medieval Isabellas. While the name Elizabeth has maintained widespread popularity thanks to the Biblical reference, the forms of Isabel, Isabelle and Isabella were largely popularized by European royalty in the Middle Ages. The name's root origin "Elisheba", which means "God is my oath" or "God's promise," first appears in the Bible's Book of Exodus, borne by the wife of Aaron (the older brother of Moses and a prophet in his own right). Separately, another important Elizabeth in Judeo-Christian tradition appears in the New Testament (herself a descendant of Aaron) as the mother of John the Baptist. Through centuries of movement through various geographies, cultures and languages, Isabelle is yet another derivation of Elisheba. Today, the name Isabelle is quite popular among North Americans and Europeans alike. Diminutives include Isa, Belle and Izzy.