The name Elly is derived from the Hebrew name Eliyahu, meaning "My God is Yahweh." This name has its roots in the ancient Near East and can be traced back to biblical times. It is believed to have originated around the 8th century BC.

The name Eliyahu, from which Elly is derived, appears several times in the Hebrew Bible, most notably as the name of the prophet Elijah. This significant figure played a crucial role in the religious history of ancient Israel and is revered in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

The earliest recorded examples of the name Elly can be found in medieval European records, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands. It was often used as a diminutive or nickname for names like Eleanor or Elizabeth.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Elly. One of the earliest was Elly Bacheracht (1570-1639), a German Baroque composer and organist who served as the court Kapellmeister in Darmstadt.

Another prominent figure was Elly Ameling (1933-2021), a renowned Dutch soprano who was particularly celebrated for her interpretations of lieder and oratorio works. She performed extensively throughout Europe and the United States during her illustrious career.

Elly Ney (1882-1968) was a Dutch pianist and composer who gained recognition for her compositions and performances in the early 20th century. She was also a dedicated teacher and influenced many aspiring musicians.

In the field of literature, Elly van Nahuys (1890-1957) was a Dutch writer and poet who published several collections of poetry and novels, some of which explored themes of feminism and social issues.

Elly Griffiths (born 1963) is a contemporary British crime novelist best known for her Ruth Galloway mystery series, which has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated readership.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who have borne the name Elly, a name with rich cultural and linguistic origins that have endured across centuries and regions.