What does Elene mean and where does it come from?
Elene is a name with roots in both Georgian and Greek languages. In Georgian, the name is spelled ელენე and means 'shining light.' In Greek origins, the name can also imply meanings related to 'torch' and 'light'. The name has been popular in various cultures and is often associated with saints and
Cultural significance
Elene has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Georgia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of shining light.
Peak popularity
Reached #1261 in 1914 — currently #12495 in the US.
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Related Reading
Georgia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Elene?
Elene works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Elene Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Elene Rose
Floral · soft ending
Elene Mae
Sweet · timeless
Elene Claire
French influence · crisp
Elene Jane
Literary · strong
Elene Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Elene right now?
Falling — down 3271 spots — currently #12495 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #12495 | 7 | ▼ down 3271 · -36% births |
| 2022 | #9224 | 11 | ▲ up 4730 · +83% births |
| 2021 | #13954 | 6 | ▲ up 1142 · +20% births |
| 2020 | #15096 | 5 | ▼ down 4188 · -44% births |
| 2015 | #10908 | 9 | ▲ up 380 |
| 2010 | #11288 | 9 | ▲ up 3310 · +50% births |
| 2005 | #14598 | 6 | ▼ down 5378 · -40% births |
| 2000 | #9220 | 10 | ▲ up 1063 · +43% births |
| 1990 | #10283 | 7 | ▼ down 1073 · +17% births |
| 1980 | #9210 | 6 | ▼ down 3719 · -33% births |
| 1970 | #5491 | 9 | ▼ down 569 · +13% births |
| 1965 | #4922 | 8 | ▼ down 393 · -11% births |
| 1960 | #4529 | 9 | ▼ down 1761 · -47% births |
| 1955 | #2768 | 17 | ▲ up 532 · +55% births |
| 1950 | #3300 | 11 | — |
The story of Elene
Elene entered American naming records in 1908 and has been in use for over 116 years. With 1,217 total births recorded, Elene remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2675 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12495 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Elene in 1914:
Elene by decade
Elene peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 6 | |
| 1910s | 162 | |
| 1920s ★ | 250 | |
| 1930s | 159 | |
| 1940s | 122 | |
| 1950s | 111 | |
| 1960s | 97 | |
| 1970s | 74 | |
| 1980s | 48 | |
| 1990s | 29 | |
| 2000s | 66 | |
| 2010s | 88 | |
| 2020s | 5 | |
💎With 1,217 total births, Elene is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Elene?
What names sound and feel like Elene?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Elene also consider these
How is Elene written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Elene
What does the name Elene mean?
Elene means "Shining light" — a name rooted in Georgia 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 Elene?
Elene is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Elene?
Elene originates from Georgia tradition. Georgia 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 Elene?
Elene is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 L IY0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Elene a common or rare name?
Elene is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.