Ellen sits next to 4 phonetic neighbors — Helen, Eleanor, and Elaine are the closest matches by sound. Most share Ellen's English-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"sunlight, moon (alternate etymology)"
"little wren bird"
"heavenly ocean, royal sea"
"high, exalted, rising"
"elf ruler, ruler of supernatural beings"
"one who weakens or brings low"
"sea of bitterness (etymological root)"
"noble elf ruler"
"beautiful, pretty"
"God is gracious"
"white, fair, holy"
"violet flower"
"God is my father"
"pure"
"protection, shelter"
"famous ruler"
"woman from Magdala, tower"
"follower of Christ"
"vision of beauty, friendship"
"day of rest and worship"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Ellen — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Ancient Greek origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Ellen.
Rhythm: Ellen is a 2-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.