Elle

“she; her” — Associated with grace and femininity

France origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#441US 2023

700Births / yr

↓Falling

15.5kAll-time births

📅 Since 197700.05% of births at peak

How to pronounce Elle

/ˈɛl/ · stress on EL · 1 syllable

“she; her”

Associated with grace and femininity · France origin

What does Elle mean and where does it come from?

Originally derived from the French word 'elle', meaning 'she' or 'her'. Elle is often used in English-speaking countries as a standalone name. The name gained popularity in the late 20th century and is commonly associated with grace and femininity. Additionally, Elle is widely recognized due to vari

Cultural significance

Elle has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of she; her.

Peak popularity

Reached #353 in 2019 — currently #441 in the US.

🌿

How else can you spell Elle?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Spelling variant

Ell

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Elle?

Elle works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Elle Grace

How popular is Elle right now?

Declining — down 47 spots — currently #441 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1985–2023#441 · Top 0.33%

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#441	700	▼ down 47 · -12% births
2022	#394	795	▼ down 37 · -9% births
2021	#357	870	▲ up 14 · +5% births
2020	#371	827	▲ up 26 · +1% births
2015	#397	817	▲ up 23 · +9% births
2010	#420	749	▲ up 84 · +26% births
2005	#504	594	▲ up 630 · +228% births
2000	#1134	181	▲ up 157 · +39% births
1995	#1291	130	▲ up 351 · +43% births
1990	#1642	91	▲ up 7373 · +1200% births
1985	#9015	7	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Elle

Best Year2021Rank #357

Peak Count870

Average Rank#1451

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1985 - 202311 years

The story of Elle

Elle is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1977. A total of 15,533 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9015 in 1985 to #441 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Elle in 2019:

Olivia Emma Ava Sophia Isabella

Elle by decade

Elle peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1970s	13
1980s	188
1990s	1,251
2000s	5,161
2010s ★	8,093
2020s	827

What are good nicknames for Elle?

CROATIAN

Jelica

ENGLISH

LeannaLianaLibbieLibbyLilliaLisetteLysetteNellieNellyNonieNoreenNorene

FRENCH

Lisette

ITALIAN

LianaLoritaNorina

What names sound and feel like Elle?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Elle also consider these

Ele

Greece · light, torch

English · fairy maiden

Ellen

Ireland · Light, torch, bright

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

How is Elle written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Elle

What does the name Elle mean?

Elle means "she; her" — a name rooted in France 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 Elle?

Elle is currently ranked #441 in the United States 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 Elle?

Elle originates from France tradition. France 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 Elle?

Elle is a one-syllable name pronounced EH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

How does Elle sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Elle flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Elle ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.