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Elena

Elena is derived from the Greek name 'Helene', which means 'torch' or 'shining light'. The name is associated with beauty and radiance, reflecting the legendary Helen of Troy from Greek mythology. Over the centuries, it has been adopted by various cultures, symbolizing warmth and illumination.

IPA: /ɛˈleɪnə/ · Simplified: eh-LAY-nuh

Female
Greek
Greek
Europe
Radiant
Elegant
Strong
Warm

70/100

Popularity

Rising

10-Year Trend

9

Countries

2024

Peak Year

Meaning of Elena

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Elena is derived from the Greek name 'Helene', which means 'torch' or 'shining light'. The name is associated with beauty and radiance, reflecting the legendary Helen of Troy from Greek mythology. Over the centuries, it has been adopted by various cultures, symbolizing warmth and illumination.

Does Elena flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Elena

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ɛˈleɪnə/ · Simplified: eh-LAY-nuh

Nicknames for Elena

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Lena
Ele
Ellie
Leni

Elena name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

80

Spain

80

Greece

75

Italy

70

Russia

70

United States

70

Romania

65

Germany

60

Portugal

60

France

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Helena

Elina

Alena

Elen

Eleni

Elenka

Names like Elena

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Elena

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Elena is often associated with a warm and inviting personality. People with this name are frequently seen as compassionate and caring, valuing deep connections with others. They exude a certain elegance and strength, making them naturally inspiring to those around them.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Elena

Well-known figures who share this name.

E

Elena Kagan

Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving since 2010

E

Elena Ferrante

An acclaimed Italian novelist, known for the Neapolitan Novels series, born in 1943

Frequently asked questions about Elena

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Elena mean?
Here is the meaning behind Elena: Elena is derived from the Greek name 'Helene', which means 'torch' or 'shining light'. The name is associated with beauty and radiance, reflecting the legendary Helen of Troy from Greek mythology. Over the centuries, it has been adopted by various cultures, symbolizing warmth and illumination.
Is Elena a boy or girl name?
Elena is traditionally a girl's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Elena?
Elena scores 70/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2024.
What are good nicknames for Elena?
Popular nicknames for Elena: Lena, Ele, Ellie, Leni.
What names are similar to Elena?
Names similar to Elena: Helena, Eleanor, Ella, Eleni — close in sound, origin, or style.

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