Helen
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Helen
Helen is a Greek girl name, which has 5 letters.
Helen is a feminine name of Greek origin meaning "light, torch, bright". It is associated with the mythological figure Helen of Troy, and with the Latin word "helenus" which means "torch".
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 Helen
Helen is a name with a rich history and deep cultural significance. Derived from the Greek name Helene, it is believed to have originated from the Greek word "helene," meaning "torch" or "corposant." In Greek mythology, Helen was renowned as the daughter of Zeus and Leda, and her beauty made her a central figure in the Trojan War and the subject of countless legends and stories. The name Helen gained widespread popularity in the Western world due to its association with Helen of Troy.
In different languages and cultures, Helen has various forms and variations. In Latin, the name is rendered as Helena, while in Russian, it becomes Yelena. In Hebrew, Helen is often translated as Chaya, meaning "life," and in Scandinavian languages, it takes the form of Helena or Helene, which are also popular variations. This multitude of forms demonstrates the name's global recognition and adaptability.
The name Helen has maintained its popularity throughout history and continues to be widely used today. Known for its classic and timeless appeal, Helen has always been a favored choice among parents seeking a traditionally elegant name for their children. Famous Helens include influential figures such as Helen Keller, the renowned American author and activist, and Helen Mirren, the acclaimed British actress.
With its historical significance and enduring popularity, the name Helen represents strength, beauty, and grace. It has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved choice for parents seeking a name that embodies both tradition and sophistication. Whether spelled Helen, Helena, or any of its international variations, this name continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many.
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