Eleanor
Eleanor first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1920, when 8,497 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 7,649.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Eleanor popular?
Rising Eleanor has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 41,966 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 40,129 | |
| 2000s | 11,187 | |
| 1990s | 4,871 | |
| 1980s | 2,789 | |
| 1970s | 2,750 | |
| 1960s | 5,938 | |
| 1950s | 11,065 | |
| 1940s | 23,761 | |
| 1930s | 46,379 | |
| 1920s | 74,760 | |
| 1910s | 54,163 | |
| 1900s | 10,030 | |
| 1890s | 4,754 | |
| 1880s | 2,136 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Eleanor mean?
A name of debated origin, long associated with the Greek for “light” or “bright.” Borne by medieval queens.
Nicknames for Eleanor
- Nell
- Ellie
- Nora
- Lena
Variants & spellings
- Eleanora
- Elinor
- Leonor
Names like Eleanor
Greek names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Eleanor
Popular Greek names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Eleanor
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Eleanor mean?
Eleanor means Of uncertain origin, often “light”. A name of debated origin, long associated with the Greek for “light” or “bright.” Borne by medieval queens.
What is the origin of the name Eleanor?
Eleanor is of Greek origin.
How do you pronounce Eleanor?
Eleanor is pronounced “EL-uh-ner.”
Is Eleanor a boy or a girl name?
Eleanor is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Eleanor a popular name right now?
Eleanor has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Eleanor?
In 2025, Eleanor ranked #12 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Eleanor most popular?
Eleanor was most popular in 1920, when about 8,497 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Eleanor?
Common nicknames for Eleanor include Nell, Ellie, Nora, Lena.
What names are similar to Eleanor?
Names similar to Eleanor include Eloise, Nora, Charlotte, Alice.
What names go well with Eleanor?
Greek names that pair well with Eleanor include Christopher, Cynthia, Andrew, Helen, Timothy.