Ellen
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Ellen
Ellen is a Greek girl name, which has 5 letters.
The name Ellen is of Greek origin and means "sun ray" or "shining light".
Rating
Log in to save this name to your favorites.
What to Expect When You're Expecting
Buy On Amazon
The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be
Buy On Amazon
Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide
Buy On Amazon
Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby's First Years
Buy On Amazon
Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
Buy On AmazonThese are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Detailed Information About The Name Ellen
The name 'Ellen' is of English origin and is derived from the Greek name 'Helenē', meaning "light" or "shining". As a feminine given name, Ellen has been in use for centuries and has seen variations and adaptations across different cultures.
In ancient Greek mythology, Helenē was the daughter of Zeus and Leda, and she was renowned for her beauty. Her abduction by Paris of Troy sparked the Trojan War, as recounted in Homer's epic poem, the Iliad. Helenē's beauty and allure are often associated with the name Ellen, reflecting a sense of radiance and attractiveness.
Ellen has been a popular name throughout history, with notable figures contributing to its prominence in various fields. One notable example is Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who became the first female president of Liberia in 2006. This achievement solidified Ellen's association with strength, leadership, and breaking barriers.
In popular culture, the name Ellen has been featured in numerous books, movies, and TV shows. Perhaps one of the most iconic Ellen characters is Ellen Ripley, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver, in the 'Alien' film series. Ripley's character is known for her bravery, resourcefulness, and tenacity, further adding to the name's multifaceted image.
Ellen is a timeless name that has remained relevant and beloved by many. Its simplicity and elegance lend themselves to its enduring appeal. Whether celebrated as a symbol of light, recognized for groundbreaking achievements, or associated with fictional heroines, Ellen continues to shine brightly in the realm of names.
Similar Greek Baby Names
Search Baby Names & Meanings
Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!
Celebrity Baby Names
Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.
Celebrity Baby NamesNaming Your Baby
Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.
Naming Your Baby
Unusual Baby Names
Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.
Unusual Baby NamesBiblical Baby Names
Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!
Biblical Baby NamesTypes of Baby Names
The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.
Types of Baby Names