📅 Since 1880🏆 5 years in top 1000.24% of births at peak
How to pronounce Elena
EL·un·ah
/ˈɛl.ən.ɑ/ · stress on EL · 3 syllables
“light or bright”
Italy origin · Girl name
What does Elena mean and where does it come from?
Elena is a classic name that spans multiple cultures and languages. It is derived from the Greek name Helen, which means 'light' or 'torch'. The name has been used historically across Europe and has many variations, including Helena and Elena itself. It gained popularity due to historical figures li
Cultural significance
Elena has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of light or bright.
Holding steady — currently #47 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#47 · Top 0.03%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#47
4,276
▲ up 2
2022
#49
4,289
▲ up 4
2021
#53
4,279
▲ up 2 · +10% births
2020
#55
3,904
▲ up 51 · +35% births
2015
#106
2,891
▲ up 57 · +53% births
2010
#163
1,885
▲ up 54 · +18% births
2005
#217
1,604
▲ up 17 · +17% births
2000
#234
1,366
▲ up 59 · +44% births
1995
#293
947
▲ up 59 · +25% births
1990
#352
756
▼ down 22 · +5% births
1985
#330
721
▲ up 39 · +14% births
1980
#369
633
▲ up 24 · +22% births
1975
#393
519
▲ up 43 · +2% births
1970
#436
507
▲ up 7 · +11% births
1965
#443
455
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Elena
2023Rank #47
4,289
#373
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Elena
Elena has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #55 in 2020. A total of 85,718 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #641 in 1880 to #47 in 2023. Elena is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Elena means "light or bright" — a name rooted in Italy tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Elena?
Elena is currently ranked #47 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Elena?
Elena originates from Italy tradition. Italy names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Elena?
Elena is a three-syllable name pronounced EH1 L AH0 N AA0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Elena?
Elena pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Italy heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Elena
For a sister
Elena & Gianna♡
Elena & Aria♡
Elena & Valentina♡
Elena & Liliana♡
For a brother
Elena & Leonardo♡
Elena & Lucia♡
Elena & Sienna♡
Elena & Matteo♡
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