Ellen vs Helen

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Ellen

Girl #1,032 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"sunlight, moon (alternate etymology)"

Origin: Ancient Greek

English American Scottish Irish

✓ All Clear

Girl #424 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"torch, shining light"

Origin: Greek

Greek English French Scandinavian American

✓ All Clear

Ellen Rank #1,032

Helen Rank #424

Helen is more popular, ranked #424 vs #1032 for Ellen.

Is Ellen or Helen more popular?

Helen is more popular, ranked #424 compared to Ellen at #1032 in the United States.

What do Ellen and Helen mean?

Ellen means "sunlight, moon (alternate etymology)" (Ancient Greek origin). Helen means "torch, shining light" (Greek origin).

Are Ellen and Helen boy or girl names?

Ellen is primarily a girl name. Helen is primarily a girl name.