What does Ilana mean and where does it come from?
Ilana is a name of Hebrew origin, spelled אילנה, which means 'oak tree', symbolizing strength and endurance. In Spanish, it is sometimes interpreted as representing a calming presence. The name is common in Israel and also enjoys popularity in the Jewish diaspora. Figures like Ilana Kral, a notable
Cultural significance
Ilana has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #1187 in 1987 — currently #2293 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ilana?
Ilana works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ilana Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ilana Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ilana Mae
Sweet · timeless
Ilana Claire
French influence · crisp
Ilana Jane
Literary · strong
Ilana Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ilana right now?
Falling — down 78 spots — currently #2293 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2293 | 80 | ▼ down 78 · -6% births |
| 2022 | #2215 | 85 | ▼ down 363 · -21% births |
| 2021 | #1852 | 108 | ▲ up 374 · +35% births |
| 2020 | #2226 | 80 | ▲ up 33 · -4% births |
| 2015 | #2259 | 83 | ▼ down 52 · -6% births |
| 2010 | #2207 | 88 | ▼ down 531 · -26% births |
| 2005 | #1676 | 119 | ▼ down 139 · +1% births |
| 2000 | #1537 | 118 | ▼ down 152 · -1% births |
| 1995 | #1385 | 119 | ▼ down 81 · -5% births |
| 1990 | #1304 | 125 | ▲ up 40 · +28% births |
| 1985 | #1344 | 98 | ▲ up 180 · +26% births |
| 1980 | #1524 | 78 | ▲ up 71 · +26% births |
| 1975 | #1595 | 62 | ▲ up 549 · +63% births |
| 1970 | #2144 | 38 | ▲ up 377 · +58% births |
| 1965 | #2521 | 24 | — |
The story of Ilana
Ilana entered American naming records in 1946 and has been in use for over 78 years. With 5,250 total births recorded, Ilana remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4308 in 1955 to #2293 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Ilana in 1987:
Ilana by decade
Ilana peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 12 | |
| 1950s | 63 | |
| 1960s | 261 | |
| 1970s | 579 | |
| 1980s | 1,032 | |
| 1990s ★ | 1,211 | |
| 2000s | 1,148 | |
| 2010s | 864 | |
| 2020s | 80 | |
💎With 5,250 total births, Ilana is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Ilana?
Famous people named Ilana
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Ilana (historical community leader)
Ilana led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
I(
Ilana (historical community leader)
Ilana led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Ilana?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ilana also consider these
How is Ilana written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Ilana?
Common questions about the name Ilana
What does the name Ilana mean?
Ilana means "Hebrew" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Ilana?
Ilana 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 Ilana?
Ilana originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Ilana?
Ilana is a three-syllable name pronounced IH2 L AA1 N AH0. 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 Ilana?
Ilana pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Hebrew heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.