The name Eleen is a charming and relatively modern name that has captured the hearts of parents seeking a unique yet familiar sound for their daughters. But how popular is the name Eleen, and what meanings and origins lie behind this beautiful moniker? Let’s delve into the details.
(Image of Eleen from provided link)
Eleen Name Popularity
How popular is the name Eleen? While Eleen hasn’t consistently ranked high in popularity charts, its recent resurgence suggests a growing appeal. Examining data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), we can trace its usage in the United States.
From 1910 to 2013, the name Eleen was virtually absent from the recorded birth data. This suggests it was either extremely rare or simply not reported with enough frequency to make the official lists. However, starting in 2014, we see a change:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-2013 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2014 | 3,701 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 2015 | 2,845 | 12 | 0.0008% |
| 2016 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2017 | 3,094 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 2018 | 2,272 | 20 | 0.0015% |
| 2019 | 2,629 | 12 | 0.0009% |
| 2020 | 4,059 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 2021 | 3,430 | 12 | 0.001% |
| 2022 | 2,593 | 27 | 0.002% |
| 2023 | 4,269 | 7 | 0.0005% |
Source: SSA.gov
The data shows a fluctuating but generally upward trend. While the number of births remains relatively low, the appearance of Eleen on the charts in recent years indicates a growing awareness and acceptance of the name. The peak in 2022 with 27 births suggests a potential surge in popularity.
Meaning and Origin
While a direct, definitive origin for Eleen is difficult to pinpoint, it’s highly likely a variant of names like Eileen, Ellen, or Elene. These names have strong roots in Greek and Gaelic cultures.
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Greek Connection: Many names in the "Ele-" family derive from the Greek "Helene," meaning "torch," "bright," or "shining light." This connection lends Eleen a beautiful symbolic meaning related to illumination, beauty, and hope.
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Gaelic Influence: The name Eileen is of Gaelic origin and often associated with "the brightly shining one." This again emphasizes the theme of light and radiance.
Therefore, we can infer that Eleen likely carries similar connotations:
- Light
- Shining
- Radiant
- Beautiful
The name’s simplicity and elegance make it a desirable choice for parents seeking a name that is both meaningful and easy to pronounce.
Names Like Eleen
If you are drawn to the sound and style of Eleen, consider these similar names:
Names that Sound Like Eleen:
| Name | Meaning | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Aleen | Light | Greek |
| Eileen | "The brightly shining one" | Gaelic |
| Eleena | Sun ray, shining light | Greek |
| Elen | Light | Greek |
| Elleen | Sun ray, shining light | Greek |
| Ellen | Sun ray, shining light | Greek |
| Ileen | English | |
| Oleen | Joyous | Polynesian |
Names Similar to Eleen:
| Name | Meaning | Origin | Other Gender |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aleena | Light | Greek | |
| Alleen | Precious; awakening; light | Polynesian | |
| Ayleen | Form of Eileen | Irish | |
| Caleen | The moon | Greek | |
| Coleen | Girl, wench | Gaelic | |
| Eaden | Place of pleasure | Hebrew | Yes |
| Earleen | Noblewoman, princess, warrior, countess | English | |
| Edeena | English | ||
| Eden | Paradise | Hebrew | Yes |
| Eilean | |||
| Eileene | |||
| Eilleen | |||
| Eireen | |||
| Eiren | Peace | Greek | |
| Elaene | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Elan | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | Yes |
| Elbe | |||
| Eleana | God has answered; tree | Hebrew | |
| Eleese | Latin | ||
| Elena | Shining light | Greek | |
| Elene | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Eleni | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Eleri | Enough, surfeit | Welsh | |
| Elin | Sun ray, shining light | Welsh | |
| Elke | Noble | German | |
| Ellan | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Elle | She | French | |
| Ellee | Other, foreign; sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Ellena | Man’s defender; sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Ellene | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Ellin | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Ellon | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Ellyn | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Elmeena | Will helmet, protection | German | |
| Elmena | Will helmet, protection | German | |
| Elon | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | Yes |
| Else | God’s promise; God is my oath | Hebrew | |
| Elsee | God’s promise; God is my oath | Hebrew | |
| Elveena | Elf or magical being, friend | English | |
| Elvena | Elf or magical being, friend | English | |
| Elvene | Elf or magical being, friend | English | |
| Elyn | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Elynn | Sun ray, shining light | Greek | |
| Elzeena | Woman | Arabic | |
| Emaleen | Peaceful home | German | |
| Emelen | Peaceful home | German | Yes |
| Evaleen | Life, animal | Latin | |
| Eveleen | A variant form, regarded as Irish, of Eveline | ||
| Glen | Glen | Irish | Yes |
| Glenn | Glen | Irish | Yes |
| Ilean | English | ||
| Ileene | English | ||
| Joleen | |||
| Juleen | Youthful; Jove’s child | Latin | |
| Kaleen | Flower | Slavic | |
| Kyleen | |||
| Myleen | Merciful | English | |
| Taleen | American | ||
| Wileen | Will helmet, protection | German | Yes |
This list offers a range of options with similar sounds and related meanings, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your child.
Conclusion
Eleen is a name with a delicate sound, a connection to light and beauty, and a growing presence in the modern naming landscape. While not yet a mainstream choice, its unique charm and potential for beautiful associations make it a compelling option for parents seeking something special. If you’re looking for a name that shines, Eleen might just be the perfect choice.