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Charis vs Eleni

Which is more popular?
Charis and Eleni are given to a similar number of US babies today.
CharisEleni
Meaning grace Torch; bright light (disputed)
Origin greek greek
Gender Girl Girl
Pronunciation KAIR-iss eh-LEH-nee
Syllables 2 3
First appeared00
Peak year2006 (127)2024 (255)
In 202500
TrendDecliningRising
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Charis Eleni
19401960198020002020

Source: US Social Security Administration.

Births by decade

DecadeCharisEleni
2020s 349 1,216
2010s 895 1,420
2000s 971 1,319
1990s 605 1,275
1980s 571 762
1970s 457 469
1960s 211 239
1950s 128 100
1940s 95 22
1930s 11 0
1920s 54 0

What does Charis mean?

From Greek 'charis' (χάρις) meaning grace, kindness, or charm. In Greek myth the Charites (Graces) were goddesses of grace and beauty; the root also underlies the word charisma.

What does Eleni mean?

Modern Greek form of Helen/Helene. The etymology is uncertain: most often linked to Greek 'hele' ('torch') or a root meaning 'shine/bright', with some scholars instead proposing a connection to the moon or a pre-Greek word of unknown meaning. The 'torch/bright light' reading is traditional but not settled.

Frequently asked questions

Is Charis or Eleni more popular?

Charis and Eleni are given to a similar number of US babies today.

What is the difference between Charis and Eleni?

Charis means grace (greek origin), while Eleni means Torch; bright light (disputed) (greek origin).

Which name is older, Charis or Eleni?

In US records, Charis first appears in 0 and Eleni in 0, so Charis has the longer recorded history.