Isabella has a surprising origin: it's a form of Elizabeth. In medieval Spain and southern France, Elizabeth became Isabel, and Isabella is the Latin and Italian way of writing it. Queen Isabella I of Castile, who sponsored Columbus's first voyage, made the name famous across Europe, and it has been used by royalty and ordinary families ever since. In the U.S., it was the most popular name for baby girls in 2009 and 2010.
The name's four syllables make it easy to shorten, and it naturally breaks into two nickname families. From the end comes Bella, which also means "beautiful" in Italian, and its French-flavored cousin Belle. From the start comes Izzy, with its British spelling Issy and the simpler Isa. Bella Swan, the heroine of the Twilight novels, is an Isabella who goes by Bella.
The lists below are grouped by which part of the name each nickname uses, followed by related forms that are useful if you'd like a variation rather than a nickname. If you love Isabella but worry it's too common, the related forms at the end keep the history with a less familiar look.
Bella, Belle and Bel
Nicknames from the end of the name, with a romantic, European feel.
- BellaThe most popular nickname for Isabella. Also Italian for "beautiful."
- BelleThe French-flavored version. Elegant and a little old-fashioned.
- BelThe shortest form, crisp and understated.
- EllaTaken from the last syllables. A popular name in its own right.
Izzy, Issy and Isa
Nicknames from the start of the name, brighter and more playful.
- IzzyEnergetic and friendly. The go-to nickname for a lively Isabella.
- IzzieAnother spelling of Izzy.
- IssyA spelling often used in Britain.
- IsaSimple and elegant, used across Europe.
Related forms
Well-established forms of the name, if you'd like a variation rather than a nickname.
- IsabelThe Spanish form that Isabella comes from, itself a form of Elizabeth.
- IsobelThe traditional Scottish spelling.
- IsabelleThe French form.
- IsabeauA medieval French form, carried by Isabeau of Bavaria, a queen of France.
- YsabelAn old Spanish spelling with a distinctive look.
Choosing an Isabella nickname
- Bella and Izzy have very different personalities: Bella feels soft and romantic, Izzy bright and energetic.
- Because Isabella was so popular around 2010, a less common nickname like Isa or Bel can help her stand out.
- Try the nickname with the last name. Bella works well with most surnames; Isa suits shorter ones.
- If you love the name but want fewer syllables, Isabel or Isobel keep the history with less length.
Common questions
What is the most common nickname for Isabella?
Bella and Izzy are the two most common. Isa and Belle are popular alternatives.
Is Isabella a form of Elizabeth?
Yes. Isabel began as a medieval Spanish and southern French form of Elizabeth, and Isabella is its Latin and Italian form. See nicknames for Elizabeth.
What does Isabella mean?
Because it comes from Elizabeth, it shares Elizabeth's meaning, from the Hebrew Elisheva, usually translated as "my God is an oath."
Is Ella a nickname for Isabella?
It can be. Ella is taken from the end of the name, although it's also a popular name on its own and a short form of other names like Eleanor.