Typically, how do you spell the name...

Question

Our little girl is due in 2 weeks and as of now, we've chosen the name Nora Elizabeth...

My question is, is Elizabeth typically spelled with a z or an s? Elisabeth or Elizabeth?

Answer 1

Typically it is spelt with a Z. Elisabeth is the original middle European spelling, and is softer while Elizabeth is bolder and more modern. They are often pronounced the same, but there tends to be a slight difference: Uh-lih-zuh-beth and Uh-liss-uh-beth. Both are lovely and acceptable.

Nora Elizabeth, Nora Elisabeth

You picked a great name, and both ways are beautiful. Picking a Elizabeth will give the name a slightly more modern turn, while Elisabeth softens it. Nora is a simple, sweet, old fashioned name, so picking a Elisabeth will keep with that pattern. But you might also want to pick Elizabeth to add a spark of contemporay boldness. Tough descison, but if I were you I'd go with the Z.