Bright, shining light
Ellen is the medieval English form of Helen. It was the primary form of the name in England for centuries before Helen was reintroduced as a more formal classical variant. It shares the same etymological root as the Greek word for torch or sunbeam.
About 230 girls were named Ellen in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Comedian and television host
Actress known for Grey's Anatomy
Academy Award-winning actress
Former President of Liberia and Nobel Peace Prize winner
Astronaut and first Hispanic woman in space
Protagonist of the Alien film franchise · Alien
Countess in The Age of Innocence · The Age of Innocence
Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist
The same feel as Ellen — far less common.
Hidden gems that stand out.
