The name Isabelle is derived from the Hebrew name Elisheba, meaning "God is my oath." It is the French and English form of the Spanish name Isabel, which was originally derived from the medieval Occitan name Isabela. The name gained popularity in France and England during the Middle Ages.

Isabelle first appeared in the 12th century as a variant of the name Elisabeth. One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Isabelle was in reference to Queen Isabelle of Hainault, who lived from 1170 to 1190 and was the wife of King Philip II of France.

In the 13th century, the name Isabelle gained further prominence when it was borne by Saint Isabelle of France, who lived from 1225 to 1270. She was the sister of King Louis IX of France and founded the Franciscan monastery of Longchamp in Paris.

During the 14th century, the name Isabelle was associated with Queen Isabelle of France, who lived from 1292 to 1358 and was the wife of King Edward II of England. She played a significant role in the deposition of her husband and the accession of their son, Edward III, to the English throne.

In the 15th century, the name Isabelle was borne by Queen Isabelle I of Castile, who lived from 1451 to 1504. She was known as Queen Isabella the Catholic and was a key figure in the Spanish Inquisition and the financing of Christopher Columbus's expeditions to the Americas.

Another notable figure in history with the name Isabelle was the French novelist and playwright Isabelle de Charrière, who lived from 1740 to 1805. She was a prominent figure in the Enlightenment and was known for her works that explored themes of gender and social equality.