What does Selene mean and where does it come from?
The name Selene comes from the Ancient Greek word for moon (σελήνη). In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon, often depicted riding a chariot across the night sky. This name has maintained its popularity due to its celestial connotations and melodic quality. Variations include 'Luna'
Cultural significance
Selene has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #800 in 2020 — currently #708 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Selene?
Selene works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Selene Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Selene Rose
Floral · soft ending
Selene Mae
Sweet · timeless
Selene Claire
French influence · crisp
Selene Jane
Literary · strong
Selene Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Selene right now?
Declining — down 17 spots — currently #708 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #708 | 401 | ▼ down 17 · -6% births |
| 2022 | #691 | 425 | ▲ up 33 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #724 | 396 | ▲ up 76 · +18% births |
| 2020 | #800 | 335 | ▲ up 379 · +57% births |
| 2015 | #1179 | 214 | ▲ up 133 · +20% births |
| 2010 | #1312 | 179 | ▲ up 2 · +7% births |
| 2005 | #1314 | 168 | ▲ up 231 · +45% births |
| 2000 | #1545 | 116 | ▼ down 580 · -41% births |
| 1995 | #965 | 196 | ▲ up 103 · +18% births |
| 1990 | #1068 | 166 | ▲ up 1379 · +315% births |
| 1985 | #2447 | 40 | ▼ down 478 · -26% births |
| 1980 | #1969 | 54 | ▲ up 67 · +26% births |
| 1975 | #2036 | 43 | ▼ down 224 · -12% births |
| 1970 | #1812 | 49 | ▼ down 30 · +20% births |
| 1965 | #1782 | 41 | — |
The story of Selene
Selene entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. With 7,587 total births recorded, Selene remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3291 in 1945 to #708 in 2023. Selene is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Selene in 2020:
Selene by decade
Selene peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 23 | |
| 1930s | 12 | |
| 1940s | 79 | |
| 1950s | 161 | |
| 1960s | 359 | |
| 1970s | 472 | |
| 1980s | 481 | |
| 1990s | 1,613 | |
| 2000s | 1,708 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,339 | |
| 2020s | 335 | |
💎With 7,587 total births, Selene is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Selene?
Famous people named Selene
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Selene (ancient philosopher)
Selene bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
S(
Selene (Greek mythological figure)
Selene carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
S(
Selene (Byzantine leader)
Selene used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
S(
Selene (Greek poet or artist)
Selene helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Selene?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Selene also consider these
How is Selene written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Selene
What does the name Selene mean?
Selene means "Greek" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Selene?
Selene is currently ranked #708 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Selene have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Selene?
Selene originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Selene?
Selene is a two-syllable name pronounced S AH0 L IY1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Selene trending right now?
Selene is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.