Ellen is a popular name for girls that has been around for centuries. It has multiple origins and meanings, making it a fascinating name to explore. In this article, we will take a closer look at the meaning and history of the name Ellen.
Who Is Named Ellen?
Ellen is a commonly used name for girls in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Famous people named Ellen include Ellen DeGeneres, an American comedian and talk show host, and Ellen Page, a Canadian actress. There are also several notable fictional characters named Ellen, including Ellen Olenska from Edith Wharton’s “The Age of Innocence” and Ellen Ripley from the “Alien” film series.
What Is the Origin of the Name Ellen?
The name Ellen has multiple origins. In English, it is derived from the Greek name Helenē, which means “torch” or “corposant.” In Hebrew, Ellen is a variant of the name Elinor, which means “God is my light.” It can also be traced back to the Old German name Alia, which means “all” or “other.”
When Was the Name Ellen Popular?
The name Ellen has been in use for centuries. It was most popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reaching its peak in the 1880s. Its popularity has declined since then, but it remains a well-known name to this day.
How to Choose the Perfect Middle Name for Ellen
Choosing a middle name for your baby girl can be a challenging task, but there are plenty of options that pair well with the name Ellen. Here are some ideas:
- Ellen Grace
- Ellen Rose
- Ellen Marie
- Ellen Faith
- Ellen Elizabeth
Pros and Cons of Naming Your Baby Girl Ellen
Before choosing a name for your baby girl, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of naming your daughter Ellen:
Pros
- Ellen is a classic name that has stood the test of time.
- It’s easy to spell and pronounce.
- The name Ellen is well-known but not overly popular, making it a unique choice.
Cons
- As a common name, your child may share it with many other people.
- It lacks significance as it doesn’t have any particularly meaningful origin or history.
Alternatives to the Name Ellen
If you’re not sold on the name Ellen, there are plenty of alternatives to consider. Here are a few options:
- Eleanor
- Elena
- Ellenora
- Elaina
- Helen
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Name to Ellen
If you’re considering changing your name to Ellen, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Decide on the name Ellen and ensure that it’s the right choice for you.
- Obtain a legal name change form from your local government office.
- Fill out the form, ensuring that all information is accurate and complete.
- Submit the form along with any required documentation and fees.
- Wait for your name change to be approved by the court.
- Once approved, update all of your legal documents and personal records with your new name.
How Does Ellen Compare to Other Popular Names?
Ellen is a classic name that isn’t as popular as it once was. Here’s how it compares to other popular names:
- Emma: Emma is currently the most popular name for girls in the United States, while Ellen is ranked #740.
- Olivia: Olivia is the second most popular name for girls, while Ellen is not ranked in the top 1000.
- Ava: Ava is another popular name for girls, ranking at #3, while Ellen is ranked much lower.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Baby Girl
Choosing a name for your baby girl can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect name:
- Consider the meaning and origin of the name.
- Think about how it will sound with your last name.
- Decide on a name that is easy to spell and pronounce.
- Choose a unique name that isn’t overly popular.
- Consider family names or names with personal significance.
The Best Nicknames for Ellen
If you’re looking for a cute nickname for your daughter named Ellen, here are some options:
- Ellie
- Ella
- Nell
- Nellie
- Lena
Conclusion
In conclusion, the name Ellen has been around for centuries and has multiple origins and meanings. It’s a classic name that has stood the test of time and remains a well-known choice for baby girls. Whether you’re considering naming your child Ellen or just curious about its meaning, we hope this article has provided you with valuable information.
FAQs
- What is the most common middle name for Ellen?
-There is no definitive answer to this question as middle names are highly personal and can vary widely from person to person. Some popular middle names for girls named Ellen include Marie, Grace, Elizabeth, and Rose.
- What famous people are named Ellen?
- Several famous people are named Ellen, including Ellen DeGeneres, an American comedian and talk show host, and Ellen Page, a Canadian actress.
- Is Ellen a popular name today?
- The popularity of the name Ellen has declined since its peak in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is not one of the most popular baby names but remains a well-known choice.
- What is the meaning behind the name Ellen?
- The name Ellen has multiple origins and meanings. In English, it is derived from the Greek name Helenē, which means “torch” or “corposant.” In Hebrew, Ellen is a variant of the name Elinor, which means “God is my light.” It can also be traced back to the Old German name Alia, which means “all” or “other.”
- What are some cute nicknames for Ellen?
- Some cute nicknames for girls named Ellen include Ellie, Ella, Nell, Nellie, and Lena.

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.