A 1920s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Hellen since 1883
Babies named Hellen per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 53 |
| 1890s | 153 |
| 1900s | 252 |
| 1910s | 916 |
| 1920s | 1,668 |
| 1930s | 1,191 |
| 1940s | 864 |
| 1950s | 531 |
| 1960s | 297 |
| 1970s | 184 |
| 1980s | 182 |
| 1990s | 231 |
| 2000s | 484 |
| 2010s | 722 |
| 2020s | 625 |
Meaning & origin
Hellen is a variant spelling of Helen, a name with deep roots in Greek mythology and history. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1883, rising to a peak in 1924 (its highest rank). After a long decline, the name has been rising again since 1985. In 2025, it ranked 1796th with about 1 in 14,351 newborn girls receiving the name. The spelling Hellen is most common in Maryland, Georgia, and California, reflecting a persistent but modest regional preference. This spelling offers a subtle distinction from the more common Helen while retaining the classic sound and heritage.
Hellen is a variant spelling of Helen, which derives from the Greek name Helene, possibly from helene meaning 'torch' or 'light,' or related to selene meaning 'moon.' In Greek mythology, Helen of Troy was the daughter of Zeus and Leda, and her abduction sparked the Trojan War. The name has been used in English-speaking countries since the Middle Ages, with this spelling appearing occasionally as an alternative to Helen.
Where Hellen is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lena, Nell, Nellie, Lenny
Sibling names for Hellen
Names that share Hellen's style, for a brother or sister.
