The name Anneliese is a German form of the name Annaliese, which is derived from the Germanic name Anna combined with the name Liese, a pet form of Elisabeth. The name Anna itself is a variation of the Hebrew name Hannah, meaning "grace" or "favor".

The name Anneliese emerged in the Middle Ages, during the period when Germanic languages were developing and influencing each other. It was a popular name among German-speaking communities, particularly in regions like Bavaria and Austria.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Anneliese can be found in medieval German literature and records from the 13th and 14th centuries. However, it is likely that the name was in use even earlier, as it was a combination of two well-established names.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Anneliese. One of the most famous was Anneliese Michel (1952-1976), a German woman who became known as the subject of a controversial exorcism case in the 1970s.

Another notable Anneliese was Anneliese Rothenberger (1924-2010), a German operatic soprano who performed at major opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York.

In the literary world, Anneliese van der Pol (1984-), a Dutch-American actress and singer, is known for her roles in various television shows and Broadway productions.

Anneliese Kaminski (1888-1986) was a German athlete who competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, where she won a gold medal in the 4 x 100 meter relay.

Anneliese Pitz (1915-2001) was a German resistance fighter during World War II, who helped to smuggle Jews out of Germany and was later recognized as one of the Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem.

The name Anneliese has been popular across various periods in history, reflecting its Germanic roots and its connection to the more widely known names Anna and Elisabeth. Its enduring presence throughout the centuries highlights its cultural significance and appeal.