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Lainie
Lainie Pronunciation
Lainie is pronounced LAY-nee /ˈleɪ.ni/High
Meaning: Pet form of Elaine, the Old French form of Helen, from Greek helene, 'torch, light'High
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Lainie is an affectionate form of Elaine, itself the Old French rendering of Helen — Greek helene, generally tied to words for 'torch' and 'light'. Elaine arrived in English through Arthurian romance and boomed in early twentieth-century America, generating nicknames like Lainie and Laney along the way.
Singer-actress Lainie Kazan fixed the spelling in midcentury show business, and the homophone Laney has since become the more common form on birth certificates. Lainie remains a rare, vintage-flavored choice with built-in warmth.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Lainie Kazan (1940–present)American actress and singer known for My Big Fat Greek Wedding.
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Frequently Asked
How do you pronounce Lainie?
Lainie is pronounced LAY-nee (/ˈleɪ.ni/). Press play above to hear Lainie said aloud.
How do you say Lainie?
Lainie is said LAY-nee (/ˈleɪ.ni/). Press play above to hear Lainie said aloud.
What does the name Lainie mean?
Lainie is a pet form of Elaine, the Old French form of Helen, from Greek for 'torch' or 'light'.
Is Lainie a boy or girl name?
Lainie is a girl's name.
How popular is Lainie?
Lainie is a rare name in the U.S.; the spelling Laney is the more familiar form today.