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Eleni vs Charisse

Which is more popular?
Eleni and Charisse are given to a similar number of US babies today.
EleniCharisse
Meaning Torch; bright light (disputed) grace
Origin greek greek
Gender Girl Girl
Pronunciation eh-LEH-nee shuh-REESS
Syllables 3 2
First appeared00
Peak year2024 (255)1971 (209)
In 202500
TrendRisingVintage
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Eleni Charisse
1960198020002020

Source: US Social Security Administration.

Births by decade

DecadeEleniCharisse
2020s 1,216 14
2010s 1,420 65
2000s 1,319 209
1990s 1,275 521
1980s 762 1,099
1970s 469 1,441
1960s 239 1,264
1950s 100 635
1940s 22 48

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.

What does Charisse mean?

Generally a French-styled elaboration of Greek 'charis' (grace, kindness). Some sources propose an unrelated derivation (a cherry/Latin 'ceresia' link, or a feminine of Charles), so the grace meaning is the most-cited but not undisputed.

Frequently asked questions

Is Eleni or Charisse more popular?

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

What is the difference between Eleni and Charisse?

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

Which name is older, Eleni or Charisse?

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