Rising since 1986, #3,780 for girls today.
Popularity of Ellena since 1888
Babies named Ellena per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 13 |
| 1890s | 32 |
| 1900s | 15 |
| 1910s | 121 |
| 1920s | 140 |
| 1930s | 99 |
| 1940s | 107 |
| 1950s | 118 |
| 1960s | 123 |
| 1970s | 115 |
| 1980s | 119 |
| 1990s | 225 |
| 2000s | 381 |
| 2010s | 583 |
| 2020s | 334 |
Meaning & origin
Ellena is a relatively rare variant of the popular name Elena, which itself derives from the Greek Helen. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1888, but saw its peak popularity in 2013, likely reflecting broader trends in names ending in 'ena' and the enduring appeal of Elena. Since 1986, Ellena has been on a rising trajectory, gradually gaining more attention. In 2025, it ranked 3780, with roughly 1 in 41212 girls receiving the name. Its highest concentration of use is in California, suggesting a particular affinity in the Western United States. As a variant spelling, Ellena offers a slightly less common alternative to Elena while maintaining a similar sound and classic feel.
Ellena is a variant of Elena, which derives from the Greek name Helene, meaning 'torch' or 'light.' The name Helene was borne by the mythological Helen of Troy, whose abduction sparked the Trojan War. The variant Ellena, with its double 'l' and 'ena' ending, likely developed in Italian or Spanish contexts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, possibly influenced by popular names like Elena and Elle.
Where Ellena is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ella, Ellie, Lena, Nena
Sibling names for Ellena
Names that share Ellena's style, for a brother or sister.
