Unknown meaning, possibly light or compassion
The exact etymology of Eleonor is debated. It is often considered a variation of Eleanor, which likely originated from the Occitan name Aliénor. It may be derived from the Greek 'hele' meaning light, or the Germanic 'al' meaning other and 'aenor' meaning foreign.
Less common today
Eleonor isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #2,653 in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
American opera singer
Holy Roman Empress and Queen of Germany
