Elena
Elena first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2025, when 4,836 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 4,836.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Elena popular?
Near its peak Elena is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2025.
| 2020s | 26,192 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 28,804 | |
| 2000s | 15,699 | |
| 1990s | 9,500 | |
| 1980s | 6,300 | |
| 1970s | 5,281 | |
| 1960s | 4,744 | |
| 1950s | 3,454 | |
| 1940s | 2,247 | |
| 1930s | 1,638 | |
| 1920s | 2,169 | |
| 1910s | 1,335 | |
| 1900s | 376 | |
| 1890s | 200 | |
| 1880s | 74 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Elena mean?
A form of Helen, from the Greek, “torch” or “bright, shining light.”
Nicknames for Elena
- Lena
- Ellie
Names like Elena
Greek names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Elena
Popular Greek names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Elena
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Elena mean?
Elena means Bright, shining light. A form of Helen, from the Greek, “torch” or “bright, shining light.”
What is the origin of the name Elena?
Elena is of Greek origin.
How do you pronounce Elena?
Elena is pronounced “eh-LAY-nuh.”
Is Elena a boy or a girl name?
Elena is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Elena a popular name right now?
Elena is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2025.
How popular is the name Elena?
In 2025, Elena ranked #42 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Elena most popular?
Elena was most popular in 2025, when about 4,836 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Elena?
Common nicknames for Elena include Lena, Ellie.
What names are similar to Elena?
Names similar to Elena include Helena, Selena, Aurora, Nora.
What names go well with Elena?
Greek names that pair well with Elena include Christopher, Cynthia, Andrew, Helen, Timothy.