Dorothy vs Ellen

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Ellen

Girl #1,032 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"sunlight, moon (alternate etymology)"

Origin: Ancient Greek

Cultural Roots

English American Scottish Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,032
Total SSA Count
244
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Ellie, Nell

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Ellen →

Popularity Comparison

Dorothy Rank #431
Ellen Rank #1,032

Dorothy is more popular, ranked #431 vs #1032 for Ellen.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Dorothy ___

  • Dorothy Jane
  • Dorothy Rose
  • Dorothy Mae
  • Dorothy Grace
  • Dorothy Louise
  • Dorothy Ann

Ellen ___

  • Ellen Grace
  • Ellen Marie
  • Ellen Louise
  • Ellen Ann
  • Ellen Jane
  • Ellen Claire

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Dorothy

Eleanor Hazel Mabel Walter Clarence

If you choose Ellen

Alice Clara Hugh Arthur Margaret

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dorothy or Ellen more popular?

Dorothy is more popular, ranked #431 compared to Ellen at #1032 in the United States.

What do Dorothy and Ellen mean?

Dorothy means "gift of God" (Greek origin). Ellen means "sunlight, moon (alternate etymology)" (Ancient Greek origin).

Are Dorothy and Ellen boy or girl names?

Dorothy is primarily a girl name. Ellen is primarily a girl name.

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← Full profile: Dorothy ← Full profile: Ellen Browse all baby names