Iselin is a Norwegian feminine given name whose etymology is uncertain, but it is believed to derive from German short forms or pet forms of Old High German names containing the element isarn, meaning "iron". Alternative origins include a connection to the German name Isa or adaptation of the Irish dream name Aisling. Etymology The most widely accepted theory traces Iselin back to a German pet form of names such as Iselinde or Isengard, where the first element is- comes from Old High German isarn ("iron"). This contrasts with another hypothesis that it simply derives from a variant of the name Isa. In Norway, some have also linked it to the Irish name Aisling (meaning "dream"), though this connection is less linguistically direct. Distribution Iselin enjoys considerable popularity in Norway, where it is used both as a first name and as a second name. According to recent statistics, approximately 2,937 Norwegian women carry Iselin as their primary given name, with an additional 2,404 using it as a middle name. Notable Bearers Several Norwegian public figures bear the name Iselin: Iselin Alme (born 1957), singer and stage actress Iselin Nybø (born 1981), politician Iselin Solheim (born 1990), singer-songwriter Iselin Steiro (born 1985), model Iselin Michelsen (born 1990), model and singer Key Facts Meaning: Uncertain; possibly "iron" or "dream" Origin: Primarily German, also Irish influence in Norway Type: Feminine given name Usage: Predominantly Norwegian