Greek Girl Names That Mean Light
Greek girl names that mean light almost all trace back to one root, Helen, which is why this list is really one name wearing a dozen different faces.
Names279
OriginGreek
MeaningLight
GenderGirl
In ancient Greek, Helen's name is thought to come from a root meaning torch or shining light, and mythology gave that light a face: Helen of Troy, whose beauty was said to launch a thousand ships. Centuries of translation split that one root into an entire family of names.
You can watch it fold through language and time on this page: Latin gives Helena, French gives Elaine, Spanish and Slavic give Elena, and English keeps clipping it down further into pet forms like Ellie and Lena, with Elle trailing along as a minimalist cousin.
Why Greek girl names that mean light keep repeating the same root
Most of these names aren't separate inventions; they're one Greek root reshaped by centuries of use. Helen gave rise to Helena and Elena as formal, cross-cultural versions, and to pet names like Nellie, Ellie, and Elaina that softened it for everyday use. Phoebe stands apart, carrying its own Greek 'bright one' meaning tied to a moon goddess rather than to Helen at all.
Familiar versus unexpected picks on this list
Some names here feel instantly classic — Helen and Elaine carry Arthurian and ancient-world weight — while others feel fresh: Lainey and Elora read as modern, breezy choices, with Elora blending a Hebrew element into the same light imagery. Parents drawn to this meaning usually want a name that sounds gentle rather than showy, which is likely why diminutives like Elle keep climbing the rankings.
Names List
Ellie#24 in the U.S.Bright shining one; sun ray; from Greek HelenePronounced EL-ee▶Lainey#30 in the U.S.Diminutive of Elaine or Laney; ultimately from Helen/Helene meaning bright, shining onePronounced LAY-nee▶Elena#42 in the U.S.Bright, shining one; torch — variant of Helen, from Greek HelenePronounced eh-LAY-nuh▶Phoebe#157 in the U.S.Bright, radiant, shining onePronounced FEE-bee▶Elaina#267 in the U.S.Bright, shining lightPronounced eh-LAY-nuh▶Selena#268 in the U.S.Moon; moonlight; from Greek Selene, goddess of the moonPronounced suh-LEE-nuh▶Lena#279 in the U.S.Bright, shining light; short form of Helena or MagdalenaPronounced LEE-nuh▶Elaine#305 in the U.S.Bright, shining light — Old French form of HelenPronounced eh-LAYN▶Elora#354 in the U.S.Likely a blend of Eleanor or Hebrew El (God) with the light-bearing suffix -ora, meaning 'God is my lightPronounced eh-LOR-ah▶Helena#363 in the U.S.Latinate form of Helen, from the Greek Helene, possibly derived from the Greek word 'hele' (torch, brightPronounced HEL-eh-nah▶Elle#461 in the U.S.French word meaning 'she,' used as a given name; also a short form of names like Eleanor (Greek 'bright, Pronounced EL▶Helen#462 in the U.S.From Greek 'Helene,' possibly derived from 'helios' (sun) or from the root 'hele' (torch, bright light); Pronounced HEL-en▶Nellie#533 in the U.S.Pet form of Eleanor, Helen, or Ellen; Eleanor derives from Old French Alienor (of uncertain origin, possiPronounced NEL-ee▶Lenora#539 in the U.S.Short form of Eleonora or Leonora, ultimately from Greek Helene ('torch, bright light') via the ProvençalPronounced leh-NOR-ah▶Halo#613 in the U.S.From Greek halos meaning 'disc of the sun or moon,' 'ring of light,' or 'threshing floor'; used in EnglisPronounced HAY-loh▶Selene#623 in the U.S.From Greek Selene, the goddess of the moon, derived from selas meaning 'light,' 'brightness,' or 'glow'; Pronounced seh-LEE-nee▶Laney#674 in the U.S.Diminutive of Elaine, Delaney, or Lane; Elaine is an Old French form of Helen, from Greek helene meaning Pronounced LAY-nee▶Alena#707 in the U.S.Variant of Helena or Elena, from Greek Helene meaning 'torch' or 'bright one,' associated with the radianPronounced ah-LAY-nah▶Iliana#730 in the U.S.Variant of Elena or Ileana, from the Greek Helene meaning 'bright' or 'torch'; also interpreted as a femiPronounced il-ee-AH-nah▶Elina#764 in the U.S.Bright, shining one or torch of light; a Finnish and Scandinavian form of Helena, from the Greek Helene mPronounced eh-LEE-nah▶Aura#817 in the U.S.From the Greek aura meaning 'breeze' or 'breath of air', and the Latin aura meaning 'gleam of light' or 'Pronounced AW-ruh▶Celina#829 in the U.S.Variant of Selena or Celine, ultimately from the Greek Selene, goddess of the moon, whose name is derivedPronounced seh-LEE-nuh▶Elani#844 in the U.S.A modern name drawing on multiple roots: the Hebrew el (God) combined with a nature suffix; the Greek ElePronounced eh-LAH-nee▶Eleanora#865 in the U.S.An elaborated form of Eleanor, which derives from the Provencal Alienor, possibly meaning 'the other AenoPronounced el-ee-uh-NOR-uh▶Elara#942 in the U.S.In Greek mythology Elara was a mortal woman loved by Zeus; the name may derive from Greek root ela relatePronounced eh-LAR-uh▶Eleni#1003 in the U.S.Bright, shining; modern Greek form of Helen, from Greek helene, possibly related to helios (sun) or selasPronounced eh-LEH-nee▶Ellen#1028 in the U.S.Bright, shining; an English form of Helen, from Greek helene (possibly related to helios, sun)Pronounced EL-un▶Leena#1086 in the U.S.Tender; Finnish form of Helena (bright, shining) or a spelling variant of Lena; in Arabic, layna means tePronounced LEE-nuh▶Kassandra#1217 in the U.S.She who entangles men; possibly from Greek kassein (to shine) + andros (man); exact etymology disputedPronounced kuh-SAN-druh▶Leni#1243 in the U.S.Bright; shining; German/Scandinavian short form of Helena (from Greek helene: bright, shining), or of MagPronounced LEH-nee▶Cassie#1273 in the U.S.Shining upon man; she who entangles menPronounced KAS-ee▶Roxanne#1275 in the U.S.Bright, dawn, little starPronounced rok-SAN▶Nelly#1358 in the U.S.Bright, shining, ray of sun; diminutive of HelenPronounced NEL-ee▶Elayna#1423 in the U.S.Bright, shining, ray of sunPronounced eh-LAY-nah▶Nell#1460 in the U.S.Bright, shining, ray of sun; short form of Eleanor or HelenPronounced NEL▶Hellen#1633 in the U.S.A spelling variant of Helen, from Greek Helene, traditionally associated with helios "sun" or the word foPronounced HEL-uhn▶Asia#1689 in the U.S.A place name from the continent Asia, ultimately from a Greek/Akkadian root associated with 'east' or 'suPronounced AY-zhuh▶Laina#2288 in the U.S.bright, shining onePronounced LAY-nuh▶Illiana#2309 in the U.S.sunshine, of the sunPronounced il-ee-AH-nuh▶Ileana#2406 in the U.S.sunshine, bright one, of the sunPronounced ih-lee-AH-nuh▶Ilyana#2407 in the U.S.sunshine, of the sunPronounced il-ee-AH-nuh▶Klaire#2672 in the U.S.Clear, bright, famousPronounced KLER▶Amaryllis#2689 in the U.S.to sparkle, shinePronounced am-uh-RIHL-ihs▶Elli#2974 in the U.S.A diminutive of Eleanor or Ellen, ultimately from the Greek Helene meaning torch or shining light.Pronounced EL-ee▶Aleina#3164 in the U.S.Variant of Alena, a Slavic short form of Helena, from Greek 'Helene' meaning 'torch' or 'shining light'.Pronounced ah-LAY-nah▶Ellee#3177 in the U.S.Creative spelling of Ellie, a diminutive of Eleanor (bright, shining) or Elizabeth (my God is an oath), uPronounced EL-ee▶Kassie#3189 in the U.S.Short form of Kassandra/Cassandra, from Greek possibly meaning 'she who entangles men' or 'shining upon mPronounced KAS-ee▶Roxy#3204 in the U.S.Short form of Roxana or Roxanne, from Persian Roshanak or Ruxshana, meaning 'dawn', 'bright', or 'luminouPronounced ROK-see▶Lainie#3300 in the U.S.Pet form of Elaine, the Old French form of Helen, from Greek helene, 'torch, light'Pronounced LAY-nee▶Roxanna#3313 in the U.S.Bright, shining, dawn; Latinate elaboration of Roxana, from Persian RoshanakPronounced rok-SAN-ə▶Eleen#3514 in the U.S.Variant of Eileen — itself an Irish form of Helen, from Greek for 'torch, light' — or a short Eleen/AileePronounced eh-LEEN▶Eiley#3652 in the U.S.Variant of Eilidh — the Scottish Gaelic form of Helen, 'light, torch' — or a modern Eilee/Aily spellingPronounced EYE-lee▶Elayne#3653 in the U.S.Variant of Elaine, the Old French form of Helen, from Greek for 'torch, light'Pronounced ee-LAYN▶Elleanor#3701 in the U.S.Variant spelling of Eleanor — from Occitan Aliénor, often linked to Greek for 'light, shining'Pronounced EH-lə-nor▶Ailee#3747 in the U.S.Spelling in the Eilidh/Aily family — the Scottish Gaelic Helen, 'light, torch' — also a K-pop stage namePronounced AY-lee▶Helene#3765 in the U.S.French and continental form of Helen — Greek helene, 'torch, corposant; shining light'Pronounced heh-LEN▶Leaner#4034 in the U.S.Leaner is an early-American girl's name, chiefly Southern, usually read as a variant of Lena, itself a shPronounced LEE-nur▶Elea#4124 in the U.S.Short form linked to Eleanor/Helen — from Greek roots associated with 'light, bright, shining'; routes laPronounced eh-LEE-ah▶Ellanor#4125 in the U.S.Spelling of Eleanor — from Old French Aliénor, often linked to Greek/Latin roots for 'light, bright'Pronounced EL-ə-nor▶Ellanie#4210 in the U.S.Pet elaboration of Ella/Eleanor — variously 'all/other' (Germanic) or linked to 'light, bright'; routes lPronounced EL-ə-nee▶Ena#4213 in the U.S.Anglicized form of Irish Eithne ('kernel; fire') or a short form of Helena ('light'); routes layeredPronounced EE-nah▶Olena#4257 in the U.S.Ukrainian form of Helen — Greek, 'light, torch; bright'Pronounced oh-LEH-nah▶Jelena#4405 in the U.S.Slavic form of Helen — Greek, 'light, torch; bright'Pronounced yeh-LEH-nah▶Eleyna#4571 in the U.S.Spelling of Elena/Elaina — a form of Helen, from Greek, 'light, torch; bright'Pronounced eh-LAY-nah▶Ellinor#4573 in the U.S.Scandinavian spelling of Eleanor — possibly Provençal 'the other Aenor', often linked to Greek 'light'; rPronounced EL-ih-nor▶Calaya#4780 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Kalea ('bright, beautiful', Hawaiian) and Calla (the lily); no single fixed rootPronounced kə-LY-ah▶Sindee#4783 in the U.S.Sindee is a fully phonetic respelling of Cindy, the short form of Cynthia (Greek, 'of Mount Kynthos') or Pronounced SIN-dee▶Elenora#4792 in the U.S.Spelling of Eleanora — an elaboration of Eleanor, possibly 'the other Aenor' (Provençal) or linked to 'liPronounced el-ə-NOR-ah▶Ilyanna#4802 in the U.S.Spelling of Iliana/Eliana — from Hebrew, 'my God has answered', or Greek 'sun/ray of light'; routes layerPronounced il-ee-AH-nah▶Halina#4922 in the U.S.Polish form of Helen/Halina — from Greek, 'light, torch; bright'Pronounced hah-LEE-nah▶Ilona#4928 in the U.S.Hungarian form of Helen — from Greek, 'light, torch; bright'Pronounced ih-LOH-nah▶Maleena#4964 in the U.S.Spelling of Malena/Malina — a pet form of Magdalena ('of Magdala') or Helena ('light'); routes layeredPronounced mə-LEE-nah▶Adalena#5006 in the U.S.Modern blend of Adaline/Adela ('noble', Germanic) and Lena (a Helena/Magdalena short form, 'light' / 'of Pronounced ah-dah-LAY-nah▶Eleina#5042 in the U.S.-ei- spelling of Elena/Elaina — from Greek Helene, 'light, torch; bright'Pronounced eh-LAY-nah▶Haylo#5055 in the U.S.Spelling of Halo — from Greek halos, 'a ring of light, a disc of glory' — with a Hay-/Hayley echo; routesPronounced HAY-loh▶Illyana#5058 in the U.S.-ll- spelling of Iliana/Ilyana — variously a feminine of Elijah ('the Lord is my God', Hebrew) or linked Pronounced ih-lee-AH-nah▶Laena#5078 in the U.S.-ae- spelling of Lena/Laina — a short form of Helena ('light') or Magdalena ('of Magdala'); routes layerePronounced LAY-nah▶Helon#5079 in the U.S.Helon as an early-1900s girls' name is best read as a variant of Helen, the Greek name traditionally connPronounced HEE-lon▶Nelle#5090 in the U.S.Short form of Eleanor/Helen/Cornelia — variously linked to 'light' (Helen), or 'horn' (Cornelia); routes Pronounced NEL▶Helyne#5189 in the U.S.Helyne is a variant spelling of Helene, the French and Greek form of Helen. Helen goes back to the Greek Pronounced huh-LEEN▶Nellene#5233 in the U.S.Nellene extends Nell, the old pet form of Eleanor, Ellen, and Helen, with the suffix -ene. Nell arose froPronounced nuh-LEEN▶Eily#5326 in the U.S.Irish pet form of Eileen/Aileen (Eibhlin) — linked to 'light, sun, shining' (via Helen) or 'desired'; rouPronounced AY-lee▶Elenna#5475 in the U.S.-nn- spelling of Elena — from Greek Helene, 'light; torch; shining one' (also linked to 'the moon')Pronounced eh-LEN-ah▶Elenor#5476 in the U.S.-or spelling of Eleanor — possibly from Provençal Alienor, linked to 'light, bright'; the origin is debatPronounced EL-ə-nor▶Elnora#5480 in the U.S.A contracted form of Eleanora/Eleanor — often linked to 'light, bright; the shining one'; the origin is dPronounced el-NOR-ah▶Ilene#5665 in the U.S.A spelling of Eileen/Aileen — an Irish form of Helen, from Greek, 'light; torch; the shining one'; routesPronounced eye-LEEN▶Layni#5697 in the U.S.A spelling of Laney/Lainey — a pet form of Elaine (a form of Helen, 'bright, shining', Greek), or from a Pronounced LAY-nee▶Phebe#5730 in the U.S.A no-o spelling of Phoebe — from Greek Phoibe, 'bright, radiant, pure' (a Titaness; a name of the moon)Pronounced FEE-bee▶Alenna#5785 in the U.S.A -nn- spelling of Alena/Alana — variously 'light' (a Slavic Elena/Helen), or 'fair; a little rock; harmoPronounced ə-LEN-ah▶Lanora#5874 in the U.S.A form of Lenora/Eleanor — often linked to 'light, bright; the shining one'; the origin is debatedPronounced lə-NOR-ah▶Azia#5961 in the U.S.A Z-spelling of Asia — from Greek, possibly from Akkadian asu, 'to rise, the east, the sunrise'; the placPronounced AY-zhah▶Elektra#5985 in the U.S.From Greek elektron, 'amber; shining, radiant, gleaming' (the source of the word 'electric')Pronounced ee-LEK-trah▶Eline#5986 in the U.S.A Dutch/Scandinavian form of Helen/Helena — from Greek, 'a torch; light; the bright, shining one'Pronounced eh-LEE-nə▶Helane#6062 in the U.S.Helane is a variant of Helen, and close to Elaine, both from the Greek Helene. The old name is usually liPronounced heh-LAYN▶Olenna#6081 in the U.S.A form of Olena (the Ukrainian Helen) — from Greek, 'a torch; light; the shining one'; also the name of aPronounced oh-LEN-ah▶Phaedra#6086 in the U.S.From Greek Phaidra, 'bright, radiant, beaming' (from phaidros, 'bright')Pronounced FAY-drah▶Apollonia#6171 in the U.S.A feminine of Apollonios — 'of Apollo, belonging to Apollo' (the Greek god of light, music, and prophecy)Pronounced ap-ə-LOH-nee-ah▶Elenore#6207 in the U.S.A spelling of Eleanor — variously linked to Greek 'light' and an Old Provençal name; popularly 'the shiniPronounced EL-ə-nor▶Ellanora#6212 in the U.S.A spelling of Eleanora — an elaboration of Eleanor, linked to Greek 'light'; popularly 'the shining lightPronounced el-ə-NOR-ah▶Ellenor#6213 in the U.S.A double-l spelling of Eleanor — linked to Greek 'light' and an Old Provençal name; popularly 'the shininPronounced EL-ə-nor▶Helaena#6229 in the U.S.A spelling of Helena — from Greek, variously 'a torch; light; the bright one' (linked to helene, 'a torchPronounced hel-AY-nah▶Mylene#6303 in the U.S.The French Mylene — a blend of Marie ('beloved; of the sea') and Helene ('a torch; light'); routes layerePronounced mee-LEN▶Nelli#6310 in the U.S.A pet form of Helen/Eleanor/Cornelia — Helen variously 'a torch; light; the bright one' (Greek); routes lPronounced NEL-ee▶Eleanna#6436 in the U.S.A Greek name blending Eleni/Eleanor ('a torch; light; a sun ray') and Anna ('grace'); routes layeredPronounced el-ee-AH-nah▶Elinore#6437 in the U.S.A spelling of Eleanor — variously 'a torch; light; the bright one' (linked to Helen); the precise root isPronounced EL-ih-nor▶Hellon#6443 in the U.S.Hellon is a spelling variant of Helen, from the Greek Helene, usually linked to helios, 'sun,' or to a roPronounced HEL-uhn▶Eleny#6685 in the U.S.A spelling of Eleni — the Greek form of Helen, from Greek, variously 'light; torch; bright; the shining oPronounced eh-LEH-nee▶Ellina#6694 in the U.S.A spelling of Elina/Elena — kin of Helen, from Greek, variously 'light; a torch; bright; the shining one'Pronounced eh-LEE-nah▶Eyleen#6705 in the U.S.A spelling of Eileen/Aileen — an Irish form linked to Evelyn and to Helen ('light; the bright, shining onPronounced eye-LEEN▶Helaina#6726 in the U.S.A spelling of Helena/Elaina — from Greek Helene, variously 'light; a torch; bright; the shining one'; rouPronounced heh-LAY-nah▶Luka#6797 in the U.S.A spelling of Luca/Luke — from Greek Loukas, variously 'from Lucania (a region of Italy)' and 'light; briPronounced LOO-kah▶Maryellen#6814 in the U.S.A compound of Mary (variously 'beloved; bitter; of the sea') and Ellen (a form of Helen, 'light; a torch;Pronounced MAIR-ee-el-en▶Illene#6894 in the U.S.Illene is a respelling of Ilene, a variant of Eileen, the Irish form of Helen from the Greek root often rPronounced ih-LEEN▶Helayne#6935 in the U.S.Helayne is a decorative spelling that blends Helen and Elaine, both of which descend from Greek Helene. TPronounced huh-LAYN▶Apolonia#6942 in the U.S.A Spanish/Polish form of Apollonia — from Greek, 'belonging to Apollo' (the god of light, music, and the Pronounced ah-poh-LOH-nee-ah▶Elleana#6995 in the U.S.A spelling of Eliana — variously from Hebrew, 'my God has answered', and from Greek/Latin, linked to 'thePronounced el-ee-AH-nah▶Elyna#6999 in the U.S.A spelling of Elina/Elena — from Greek, 'a light; bright; a torch; a ray of sun'; routes layeredPronounced eh-LEE-nah▶Evalena#7006 in the U.S.A blend of Eva ('life; living') and Lena ('a light; the bright one'); routes layeredPronounced ev-uh-LEE-nah▶Ileane#7155 in the U.S.Ileane is a variant of Eileen and Ilene, English forms of the Irish Eibhlin, itself linked to Helen, fromPronounced eye-LEEN▶Ellinore#7320 in the U.S.A form of Eleanor — of Occitan origin (Alienor), often read 'bright, shining one; light'; sometimes linkePronounced EL-ih-nor▶Ellaina#7675 in the U.S.An elaboration of Elaina/Elena (Helen) — from Greek helene, 'bright; shining light; torch'Pronounced eh-LAY-nah▶Layney#7778 in the U.S.A pet form of Elaine ('bright; shining light', from Helen) and Delaney; routes layeredPronounced LAY-nee▶Marilena#7804 in the U.S.An Italian/Greek compound of Maria (Mary) and Elena/Helen ('bright; shining light; torch', Greek)Pronounced mah-ree-LEH-nah▶Charmian#7879 in the U.S.Charmian derives from the Greek kharma, 'joy, source of delight,' related to charis, 'grace.' It is best Pronounced KAR-mee-un▶Aily#7951 in the U.S.A pet form of Aileen/Eileen — Irish forms of Helen, 'bright; shining light; torch' (Greek); routes layerePronounced AY-lee▶Alainah#7956 in the U.S.A spelling of Alaina/Elaina — a form of Helen, from Greek helene, 'bright; shining light; torch'Pronounced uh-LAY-nah▶Eleena#8056 in the U.S.A form of Elena/Helena — from the Greek, 'light; bright; a shining torch'Pronounced eh-LEE-nah▶Elene#8057 in the U.S.A Georgian/Greek form of Helen — from the Greek, 'a torch; light; the bright/shining one'Pronounced eh-LEH-neh▶Ellanore#8062 in the U.S.A spelling of Eleanor — from the Provencal Alienor (linked to Greek, 'light; the shining one')Pronounced EL-uh-nor▶Elyn#8064 in the U.S.A form of Ellen/Elin — from the Greek Helen, 'a torch; light; the bright one'; routes layeredPronounced EL-in▶Jalina#8125 in the U.S.A form of Jelena/Galina — variously from the Greek Helen ('light; the bright one') and Galina ('calm; serPronounced juh-LEE-nah▶Cindee#8196 in the U.S.Cindee is a double-e spelling of Cindy, the pet form of Cynthia — a Greek epithet of Artemis meaning 'froPronounced SIN-dee▶Marielena#8228 in the U.S.A Spanish compound of Marie ('beloved; of the sea', from Hebrew Miriam) and Elena ('light; the bright onePronounced mah-ree-eh-LEH-nah▶Zea#8401 in the U.S.Variously from the Greek/Latin zea, 'grain; spelt' (a cereal, as in Zea mays, 'maize'), and a short form Pronounced ZEE-ah▶Aleni#8437 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Eleni ('a torch; light', Greek, from Helen) and Aleena; no single fixed Pronounced ah-LEH-nee▶Apolline#8464 in the U.S.A French feminine form of Apollo — from the Greek god Apollo (of light, music and the sun); 'of Apollo'; Pronounced ah-poh-LEEN▶Alaena#8491 in the U.S.A modern respelling in the Alaina/Elena family, tracing through Helen, 'bright; shining light; torch.' ThPronounced uh-LAY-nuh▶Casandra#8522 in the U.S.A form/spelling of Cassandra — from the Greek, variously 'one who shines/excels over men' and 'she who enPronounced kah-SAN-drah▶Elley#8565 in the U.S.A pet form/spelling of Ellie — a short form of Eleanor/Ella, variously 'a shining light' (Eleanor) and 'aPronounced EL-ee▶Kasandra#8669 in the U.S.A form/spelling of Cassandra — from the Greek, variously 'one who shines/excels over men' (the Trojan proPronounced kah-SAN-drah▶Leanora#8705 in the U.S.A form/spelling of Leonora/Eleanor — variously linked to 'light; the shining one' and 'compassion; God isPronounced lee-ah-NOR-ah▶Illona#8740 in the U.S.Illona is a double-l spelling of Ilona, the Hungarian form of Helen. Helen comes from Greek and is usuallPronounced ih-LOH-nuh▶Norabelle#8787 in the U.S.A compound of Nora ('light; honour', a short form of Eleanor/Honora) and Belle ('beautiful', French/LatinPronounced NOR-ah-bel▶Pheobe#8806 in the U.S.A spelling of Phoebe — from the Greek phoibos, 'bright; radiant; shining; pure' (a Titan and a name of thPronounced FEE-bee▶Alaine#8938 in the U.S.A form/spelling of Alaina/Elaine — variously 'bright; shining light' (a form of Helen) and a feminine of Pronounced ah-LAYN▶Aylene#8999 in the U.S.A spelling of Aileen/Eileen — an Irish form of Helen, from the Greek, 'a bright, shining light; a torch';Pronounced ay-LEEN▶Electra#9068 in the U.S.From the Greek elektra, 'amber; shining, radiant' (Electra, a princess of Greek myth, daughter of AgamemnPronounced ee-LEK-trah▶Elen#9069 in the U.S.The Welsh form of Helen — from the Greek, 'a bright, shining light; a torch'; also linked to a legendary Pronounced EL-en▶Elenia#9070 in the U.S.A form of Elena — from the Greek Helen, 'a bright, shining light; a torch'; routes layeredPronounced eh-LEN-ee-ah▶Elleni#9074 in the U.S.A spelling of Eleni — the Greek form of Helen, 'a bright, shining light; a torch'; routes layeredPronounced eh-LEN-ee▶Helina#9131 in the U.S.A spelling of Helena — from the Greek Helen, 'a bright, shining light; a torch'; also an Ethiopian/AmhariPronounced heh-LEE-nah▶Ilena#9140 in the U.S.A form of Ileana/Elena — from the Greek Helen, 'a bright, shining light; a torch'; routes layeredPronounced ee-LEH-nah▶Kassi#9205 in the U.S.A spelling of Cassie — a short form of Cassandra ('one who shines/entangles men', Greek) and Cassidy ('cuPronounced KAS-ee▶Laineymae#9249 in the U.S.A compound name — Lainey (a short form of Elaine, 'a bright, shining light') joined with Mae (a form of MPronounced LAY-nee-may▶Lynora#9288 in the U.S.A modern spelling of Lenora — a form of Eleanora/Eleanor, variously 'light; a bright torch' and 'compassiPronounced lih-NOR-ah▶Mariaelena#9305 in the U.S.A compound name — Maria (a form of Mary, variously 'star of the sea; beloved; bitter') joined with Elena Pronounced mah-REE-ah-eh-LEH-nah▶Rosalena#9410 in the U.S.A compound name — Rosa ('a rose', Latin) joined with Lena (a short form of Helena, 'light; a bright torchPronounced roh-zah-LEE-nah▶Orian#9510 in the U.S.A name that echoes Orion (the Greek hunter and constellation) and the Hebrew or ('light'); as a girl's naPronounced OR-ee-un▶Analina#9580 in the U.S.A compound name — Ana ('grace', Hebrew) joined with Lina (a short form of Carolina/Helena, 'light; tenderPronounced ah-nah-LEE-nah▶Delena#9691 in the U.S.A modern name, variously a short form of Magdalena ('of Magdala') and a form of Helena ('light; a bright Pronounced duh-LEE-nah▶Ellenora#9723 in the U.S.A form of Eleanor/Eleonora — variously 'light; a shining light; bright/compassion'Pronounced el-eh-NOR-ah▶Elna#9727 in the U.S.A Scandinavian short form, variously of Helena ('a torch; shining light', Greek) and Eleanor ('light'); rPronounced EL-nah▶Helayna#9789 in the U.S.A form of Helena — from the Greek helene, 'a torch; a shining light; the bright one'Pronounced heh-LAY-nah▶Leenah#9924 in the U.S.A spelling of Lina/Lena — variously from the Arabic lina, 'tender/a young palm tree', and a short form ofPronounced LEE-nah▶Luzelena#9945 in the U.S.A compound name — Luz ('light', Spanish/Latin) joined with Elena ('a shining light; a torch', Greek)Pronounced looz-eh-LEH-nah▶Charmon#9991 in the U.S.Charmon reads as a mid-century respelled cousin of Charmaine and Charmian, names tied to the Greek 'charmPronounced shar-MOHN▶Marialena#10060 in the U.S.A compound of Maria (from Hebrew Miryam, the name of Mary) and Elena (Greek Helene, linked to 'light; torPronounced mah-ree-uh-LEH-nuh▶Teia#10168 in the U.S.Variously from the Greek Theia ('a goddess; divine', the Titaness of light) and a short form of names likPronounced TAY-ah▶Yalena#10205 in the U.S.A form of Yelena/Helena — from the Greek, 'a shining light; a torch; the bright one' (from Helen)Pronounced yah-LAY-nah▶Ailene#10271 in the U.S.A variant of Aileen/Eileen, an Irish form linked to Helen, 'bright; shining; light' (from the Greek helenPronounced eye-LEEN▶Alyona#10290 in the U.S.A Russian pet form of Elena (Helen), from the Greek helene, 'light; bright; torch'; used as an independenPronounced ah-LYOH-nah▶Aileena#10320 in the U.S.A form of Aileen/Eileen, an Irish name usually traced to Eibhlin, itself linked to Helen, 'bright; shininPronounced eye-LEE-nah▶Nica#10355 in the U.S.A short form of Veronica ('true image') or Monica ('advisor; counsel'), also echoing the Greek Nike ('vicPronounced NEE-kuh▶Callee#10399 in the U.S.A spelling of Callie/Cali, from the Greek kallos, 'beauty'; understood as 'beautiful'; a bright short namPronounced KAL-ee▶Meggin#10448 in the U.S.Meggin is a spelling variant of Megan, the Welsh diminutive of Margaret. Margaret comes from the Greek 'mPronounced MEG-in▶Elenah#10477 in the U.S.A variant spelling of Elena, the Greek/Spanish/Italian form of Helen, 'bright; shining light; torch.' ThePronounced eh-LAY-nah▶Elenie#10478 in the U.S.A spelling of the Greek Eleni, the modern Greek form of Helen, 'bright; shining light; torch.' Warm and dPronounced eh-LEH-nee▶Adrea#10499 in the U.S.Adrea is most naturally read as Andrea with the n dropped, a light respelling of the Greek-rooted femininPronounced AY-dree-uh▶Evelena#10502 in the U.S.A blend of Evelyn (from Aveline, 'wished-for child; desired') and Lena (from Helena, 'light'). Also read Pronounced ev-uh-LEE-nah▶Ileanna#10554 in the U.S.A spelling of Ileana/Iliana, a Romanian/Greek form linked to Helen ('bright; shining light; torch'). A flPronounced ee-lee-AH-nah▶Helana#10613 in the U.S.A variant of Helena, from the Greek Helene, 'light; shining one; torch; bright.' A soft, luminous classicPronounced heh-LAH-nah▶Lydian#10723 in the U.S.An adjective form of Lydia, 'of Lydia,' the ancient region in Asia Minor for which the name Lydia was coiPronounced LID-ee-un▶Zoah#11063 in the U.S.A respelling of Zoe/Zoa, from the Greek zoe, 'life.' The added -ah gives a modern flourish while keeping Pronounced ZOH-uh▶Amarylis#11129 in the U.S.A spelling of Amaryllis, from the Greek amarysso, 'to sparkle; to shine' — and the name of the bright amaPronounced am-uh-RIL-is▶Aelina#11190 in the U.S.A modern spelling echoing Elina (a form of Helen, 'light; torch') and Aline (from Adeline, 'noble'); no sPronounced ay-LEE-nah▶Allyna#11230 in the U.S.Allyna is a doubled-l spelling of Alina or Alena, names used across Slavic and other European traditions Pronounced uh-LEE-nuh▶Crysten#11246 in the U.S.Crysten reads as a respelling of Kristen, the Scandinavian and English short form of Christine or ChristiPronounced KRIS-tun▶Cally#11269 in the U.S.A friendly diminutive of Greek-rooted names like Calliope ('beautiful voice') or Callista ('most beautifuPronounced KAL-ee▶Effy#11334 in the U.S.A pet form of Euphemia, from the Greek Euphemia, 'well-spoken; of good repute; auspicious speech.' Used aPronounced EF-ee▶Elainna#11336 in the U.S.An expanded spelling of Elaine, itself an Old French form of Helen, from the Greek for 'bright; shining lPronounced eh-LAY-nuh▶Iola#11461 in the U.S.From the Greek Iola/Iole, 'violet; violet-colored; dawn'; also a Welsh feminine name. A soft vintage namePronounced eye-OH-lah▶Kallee#11568 in the U.S.A spelling of Callie/Kali, a short form of names like Caroline or of the Greek Kalliste ('most beautiful'Pronounced KAL-ee▶Katerine#11589 in the U.S.A variant of Katherine, from the Greek Aikaterine, traditionally read as 'pure' (via katharos). A classicPronounced KAT-uh-reen▶Lucas#11689 in the U.S.From the Latin Lucas, 'man from Lucania,' long associated with 'light' (via Greek loukas/lux). A hugely pPronounced LOO-kus▶Lynx#11700 in the U.S.A word-name from the lynx, a wild cat, whose name traces to the Greek for 'to shine; bright-eyed' (for itPronounced LINKS▶Nitsa#11828 in the U.S.Nitsa is a Greek diminutive of Eleni (Helen), itself linked to 'light; torch; bright.' A warm nickname-naPronounced NEET-suh▶Prisma#11939 in the U.S.A modern name from prism (Greek prisma, 'something sawn; a sawn object'), evoking rainbows and light throPronounced PRIZ-mah▶Yelenny#12076 in the U.S.Yelenny reads as a modern Latin American coinage tied by ear to Yelena (a form of Helen, Greek 'shining lPronounced yeh-LEH-nee▶Zo#12112 in the U.S.A one-syllable short form or spare spelling of Zoe, from the Greek zoe, 'life.' Minimal and bright.Pronounced ZOH▶Crystale#12115 in the U.S.Crystale is a dressed-up spelling of Crystal, the gemstone and jewelry word that comes from Greek krystalPronounced kris-TAL▶Angelee#12230 in the U.S.Angelee is a modern respelling of Angela or Angelie, from Greek angelos ('messenger'), later 'angel'. ThePronounced AN-juh-lee▶Ellan#12241 in the U.S.Ellan is a variant spelling of Ellen, the enduring English form of Helen, from the Greek Helene. That namPronounced EL-uhn▶Calley#12369 in the U.S.A spelling of Callie/Cally, a short form of names like Calista or Caroline, from Greek kallos, 'beauty; mPronounced KAL-ee▶Catie#12379 in the U.S.A spelling of Katie, a pet form of Catherine/Katherine, from the Greek associated with 'pure.' A bright, Pronounced KAY-tee▶Christi#12393 in the U.S.A spelling of Christy/Christie, a short form of Christine/Christina, from the Greek Christos, 'anointed; Pronounced KRIS-tee▶Chrome#12394 in the U.S.A modern word name from chrome (the bright metal; a shiny finish), ultimately from the Greek chroma, 'colPronounced KROHM▶Corissa#12423 in the U.S.Corissa is an o-vowel elaboration of Carissa, a name from Greek charis, 'grace; kindness' (the root also Pronounced kuh-RISS-uh▶Margurite#12473 in the U.S.Margurite is a common variant spelling of Marguerite, the French form of Margaret, from the Greek margariPronounced MAR-guh-reet▶Elinora#12492 in the U.S.A spelling variant of Eleanor/Elinor, a name of Old French and ultimately debated origin, often linked toPronounced el-ih-NOR-ah▶Ellayna#12501 in the U.S.A modern spelling of Elaina/Elena, forms of Helen ('bright, shining light'). Routes are uncertain, which Pronounced eh-LAY-nah▶Ethereal#12534 in the U.S.A word name from 'ethereal' ('delicate, light, heavenly'), ultimately from Greek aither ('upper air, sky'Pronounced ih-THEER-ee-ul▶Myrta#12581 in the U.S.Myrta is a shortened, softened form of Myrtle, the classic Victorian flower name taken from the Greek worPronounced MUR-tuh▶Jakyrah#12732 in the U.S.Jakyrah pairs the very popular Ja- prefix with Kyra, finished with a decorative -ah. Kyra may derive fromPronounced juh-KY-ruh▶Katey#12740 in the U.S.Katey is a pet form and spelling variant of Katie, itself a diminutive of Katherine, from the Greek for 'Pronounced KAY-tee▶Karene#12866 in the U.S.Karene is a variant of Karen, the Danish short form of Katherine, whose traditional meaning is pure, fromPronounced kuh-REEN▶Luke#12883 in the U.S.From Latin Lucas / Greek Loukas, 'man from Lucania' (a region of southern Italy), often linked in feelingPronounced LOOK▶Madelene#12897 in the U.S.A variant spelling of Madeline, from Magdalene, 'of Magdala', a town on the Sea of Galilee. A classic namPronounced MAD-uh-lin▶Mellanie#13004 in the U.S.Mellanie is a doubled-l spelling of Melanie, from Greek melas ('dark, black'). A familiar classic in a slPronounced MEL-uh-nee▶Ilka#13032 in the U.S.Ilka is a Hungarian and German diminutive of Ilona, the Hungarian form of Helen, from the Greek Helene, oPronounced IL-kuh▶Charmin#13526 in the U.S.Charmin clips Charmaine, from Greek Charmian ('delight, joy'); many parents also connected it to the EnglPronounced shar-MEEN▶Anatalia#13726 in the U.S.A compound of Ana ('grace') and Talia ('dew of God'; also 'blooming'), which also echoes Anatolia, Greek Pronounced ah-nuh-TAH-lee-uh▶Chara#13779 in the U.S.From the Greek chara, 'joy; gladness; delight.' Also the name of a star in the constellation Canes VenatiPronounced KAH-rah▶Charmion#13850 in the U.S.Charmion is a Greek name drawn from charma, 'joy' or 'delight,' the same root behind names like CharmainePronounced CHAR-mee-uhn▶Elane#13914 in the U.S.A trimmed spelling of Elaine, the Old French form of Helen (Greek Helene), usually read as 'light' or 'shPronounced eh-LAYN▶Fotini#13996 in the U.S.From Greek phos, photos — 'light'. Fotini (Photini) is the name given in Orthodox tradition to the SamariPronounced foh-TEE-nee▶Kathline#14025 in the U.S.Kathline is a variant spelling of Kathleen, the anglicized Irish form of Caitlin and so of Katherine, froPronounced KATH-leen▶Ilean#14045 in the U.S.Ilean is a simplified, phonetic spelling of Eileen (also Aileen), the Irish form of Helen; Helen comes frPronounced eye-LEEN▶Helany#14055 in the U.S.A modern coinage, most naturally read as a spin on Helena/Helene — Greek Helene, traditionally glossed 'tPronounced heh-LAH-nee▶Hellena#14056 in the U.S.A spelling of Helena, from Greek Helene — traditionally glossed 'torch, light, bright one'. Borne by HelePronounced heh-LAY-nah▶Elania#14057 in the U.S.A modern name that sits between Elena (from Helen, 'bright; shining light') and Alana ('little rock; beauPronounced eh-LAH-nee-ah▶Illeana#14092 in the U.S.Illeana is a doubled-L spelling of Ileana, the Romanian name usually linked to Helen — from a Greek root Pronounced ih-lee-AH-nuh▶Lenah#14488 in the U.S.Lenah is a variant spelling of Lena, itself a short form of names like Helena, Magdalena and Yelena, and Pronounced LEE-nuh▶Seleny#14883 in the U.S.Seleny is a Spanish-influenced variant of Selena or Selene, from the Greek Selene, the goddess of the mooPronounced suh-LEN-ee▶Stephani#14998 in the U.S.Stephani is Stephanie with the final -e dropped, from Greek stephanos, 'a crown or garland' — the femininPronounced STEF-uh-nee▶Tiphany#15209 in the U.S.Tiphany is a variant spelling of Tiffany, closer to the medieval Tiffania. The name comes from the Greek Pronounced TIF-uh-nee▶Allene#15223 in the U.S.A genuine older American given name, a form of Aline — itself a short form of Adeline — and often read alPronounced uh-LEEN▶Zooey#15234 in the U.S.A spelling of Zoe, from the Greek zoe, 'life.' Familiar from actress Zooey Deschanel - and, as a boy's naPronounced ZOH-ee▶Alysandra#15305 in the U.S.Alysandra is a variant of Alexandra, the Greek name meaning defender or protector of man, softened by thePronounced al-ih-SAN-druh▶Alenah#15343 in the U.S.A variant of Alena, itself a Slavic and Greek short form of Helena/Elena, 'bright; shining light; torch.'Pronounced uh-LAY-nah▶Terre#15405 in the U.S.Terre is a spelling variant of Terry and Teri, short forms of Teresa (or Theresa). Teresa's origin is debPronounced TERR-ee▶Mariellen#15648 in the U.S.Mariellen fuses Mary — Hebrew Miriam, variously 'beloved', 'wished-for child', or 'of the sea' — with EllPronounced mair-ee-EL-uhn▶Christia#15677 in the U.S.Christia is a feminine name formed on the Christ- element, closely tied to Christina and Christiana. All Pronounced KRIS-tee-ah▶Coralia#15742 in the U.S.A name from coral (Latin corallium, from Greek korallion) - the jewel of the sea. A flowing, ocean-brightPronounced kuh-RAL-ee-ah▶Eileena#15768 in the U.S.A spelling that blends Eileen (an Irish form of Helen) and Elena, both tracing to the Greek for 'bright; Pronounced eye-LEE-nuh▶Elenarose#15837 in the U.S.A joined name pairing Elena (the Greek/Spanish form of Helen, 'bright; shining light') with Rose (the floPronounced eh-LAY-nah-rohz▶Iridian#15863 in the U.S.Iridian is a Latin-American girl's name built on the Greek iris (genitive iridos), 'rainbow,' the same roPronounced ee-ree-dee-AHN▶Ellin#15864 in the U.S.Ellin is a variant of Ellen (and a cousin of Eileen), all going back to Greek Helene, often read as 'torcPronounced EL-in▶Elaena#15901 in the U.S.A modern spelling of Elena, itself the Italian, Spanish and Russian form of Helen, from Greek Helene - usPronounced eh-LAY-nah▶Elaynah#15907 in the U.S.A modern respelling sitting between Elaine and Elena. Elaine came into English through Old French as a foPronounced ee-LAY-nuh▶Ellyn#15922 in the U.S.A variant spelling of Ellen, the English form of Helen, from Greek Helene - usually connected to helene (Pronounced EL-in▶Laurisa#15927 in the U.S.Laurisa fuses Laura, from the Latin laurus meaning laurel, with Larissa, an ancient Greek city name laterPronounced law-REE-suh▶Charmain#15928 in the U.S.Charmain is a spelling of Charmaine, which goes back to Charmian, from Greek charma, 'delight, joy'; the Pronounced shar-MAIN▶Cassy#16002 in the U.S.Cassy is an affectionate short form usually of Cassandra — the Trojan prophetess of Greek myth whose namePronounced KASS-ee▶Febe#16021 in the U.S.Febe is the Spanish, Italian and Dutch form of Phoebe, from Greek phoibe, 'bright, radiant, pure'. PhoibePronounced FEH-beh▶Halena#16098 in the U.S.A variant of Helena, from the Greek Helene, 'light; shining one; torch; bright.' A soft, luminous classicPronounced hah-LAY-nah▶Helaine#16134 in the U.S.Helaine is a French-flavored elaboration of Helen or Elaine, both from the Greek Helene, linked to helenePronounced heh-LAYN▶Gelena#16358 in the U.S.Gelena is a variant tied to Helena and the Slavic Galina. Helena comes from the Greek and is linked to hePronounced guh-LEE-nuh▶Leniya#16563 in the U.S.Leniya is a modern American coinage built on the -iya and -niya endings popular in the two-thousands, somPronounced leh-NEE-uh▶Ellene#16579 in the U.S.Ellene is an early-1900s variant blending Ellen and Eileen. Ellen is a medieval English form of Helen (GrPronounced eh-LEEN▶Ileene#16597 in the U.S.Ileene is a spelling variant of Eileen (Irish Eibhlin), an Irish form linked to Helen and Evelyn. ThroughPronounced eye-LEEN▶Laritza#16637 in the U.S.A Spanish form in the Larissa family, from the Greek Larissa (an ancient city, 'citadel'), also linked toPronounced lah-REET-sah▶Alean#16664 in the U.S.Alean is a spelling variant of Aileen or Arlene, part of a cluster that traces back through the Irish EibPronounced uh-LEEN▶Milinda#16843 in the U.S.Milinda is a variant spelling of Melinda, a name built from the Greek meli, 'honey', plus the -inda endinPronounced muh-LIN-duh▶Maryhelen#16851 in the U.S.Maryhelen is a written-together double name marrying Mary and Helen. Mary, from Hebrew Miriam, is variousPronounced MAIR-ee-HEL-uhn▶Iline#17106 in the U.S.Iline is a variant of Eileen or Ilene, names that go back through the Irish Eibhlin to Helen, from a GreePronounced eye-LEEN▶Rosellen#17119 in the U.S.Rosellen is a compound of Rose and Ellen. Rose comes from the Latin rosa, the flower, long a symbol of bePronounced ROHZ-el-un▶Seleni#17239 in the U.S.Seleni sits in the cluster of Selena and Selene, girls' names that trace to the Greek Selene, the moon goPronounced seh-LEH-nee▶Tiffani#17415 in the U.S.A spelling of Tiffany, from the Greek Theophania ('appearance of God; Epiphany'), a name once given to giPronounced TIF-uh-nee▶Helyn#17453 in the U.S.Helyn is a stylized spelling of Helen. Helen comes from Greek Helene, traditionally connected to helios/hPronounced HEL-in▶Tandy#17690 in the U.S.Tandy began as a medieval English pet form of Andrew — an affectionate reshaping that also became a surnaPronounced TAN-dee▶Sueellen#17770 in the U.S.Sueellen joins Sue and Ellen into one written name. Sue is short for Susan or Susanna, from Hebrew shoshaPronounced soo-EL-in▶Eileene#17783 in the U.S.Eileene is an ornate spelling of Eileen, the anglicized Irish form of Eibhlin, itself linked to Helen, frPronounced eye-LEEN▶Lenia#18076 in the U.S.A short, flowing form in the Lena/Yelena family, which traces to Helen ('bright; shining light') or to MaPronounced LEE-nee-uh▶Karrin#18180 in the U.S.Karrin is a respelling of Karen, the Danish short form of Katherine. Katherine traces to the Greek AikatePronounced KAIR-in▶Sharmayne#18369 in the U.S.Sharmayne is a phonetic spelling of Charmaine, a name usually linked either to the Latin 'carmen,' meaninPronounced shar-MAYN▶Estefana#18508 in the U.S.Estefana is a Spanish feminine form of Esteban, the Spanish version of Stephen, from Greek stephanos, 'crPronounced es-tuh-FAH-nuh▶EosFrom the Greek eos, 'the dawn; daybreak'; the goddess who rose each morning to bring the light; we note tPronounced EE-os▶EuterpeFrom the Greek euterpes, 'well-pleasing; giver of delight' (eu, 'well', + terpein, 'to please'); the MusePronounced yoo-TUR-pee▶TerpsichoreFrom the Greek terpsichore, 'delighting in dance' (terpein, 'to delight', + choros, 'dance/chorus'); the Pronounced turp-SIK-uh-ree▶
More Greek Meaning Guides
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Frequently Asked
What does Helen actually mean?
Helen is thought to come from an ancient Greek root tied to torches or shining light, which is why so many related names — like Helena and Elena — carry a 'bright' or 'shining' meaning today.
Is Phoebe a Greek name that means light?
Yes. Phoebe means 'bright one' in Greek and was the name of a Titan goddess linked to the moon, separate from the Helen root shared by most other names on this list.