Derived from Eileen, meaning bright, shining light or bird
Ilyn is a rare contemporary variant of the name Eileen, which itself is an Anglicized form of the Irish Eibhlín. It likely shares roots with Helen, meaning 'shining light,' or the Germanic Avelina, which is associated with the word for 'bird.' In modern usage, it is often chosen for its unique spelling and soft, phonetic appeal.
Less common today
Ilyn isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #11,396 in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
The silent King's Justice and executioner · A Song of Ice and Fire / Game of Thrones
