Ilona is a name of Hungarian origin and is also popular in various Slavic countries such as Poland and Latvia. It is derived from the French name 'Elena', which means 'bright, shining light'. The name has historical significance and cultural relevance in many Eastern European traditions, often assoc
Cultural significance
Ilona has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hungary-speaking communities, where it reflects values of light.
Falling — down 1061 spots — currently #6763 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2023#6763 · Top 5.0%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#6763
17
▼ down 1061 · -23% births
2022
#5702
22
▲ up 554 · +16% births
2021
#6256
19
▼ down 1117 · -21% births
2020
#5139
24
▼ down 1070 · -33% births
2015
#4069
36
▲ up 1055 · +33% births
2010
#5124
27
▼ down 1243 · -27% births
2005
#3881
37
▲ up 534 · +37% births
2000
#4415
27
▲ up 123 · +23% births
1995
#4538
22
▼ down 897 · -24% births
1990
#3641
29
▲ up 1039 · +81% births
1985
#4680
16
▼ down 1160 · -30% births
1980
#3520
23
▼ down 818 · -18% births
1975
#2702
28
▼ down 643 · -30% births
1970
#2059
40
▼ down 53 · +18% births
1965
#2006
34
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ilona
1940Rank #826
75
#3461
↘Falling
1910 - 202326 years
The story of Ilona
Ilona entered American naming records in 1909 and has been in use for over 115 years. With 3,206 total births recorded, Ilona remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2362 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #6763 in 2023.
Ilona means "Light" — a name rooted in Hungary 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 Ilona?
Ilona 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 Ilona?
Ilona originates from Hungary tradition. Hungary 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 Ilona?
Ilona is a three-syllable name pronounced IH2 L OW1 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 Ilona?
Ilona pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Hungary 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 Ilona
For a sister
Ilona & Ervin♡
Ilona & Gyla♡
Ilona & Gere♡
Ilona & Terez♡
For a brother
Ilona & Ervin♡
Ilona & Zsolt♡
Ilona & Gere♡
Ilona & Terez♡
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