US Popularity Rank: 2130

Origin: Greek

Meaning: Torch, the bright one

Eleni is a girl’s name with ancient Greek origins meaning “torch” or "the bright one." Eleni is still popular throughout Greece and its many islands to this day. It is the shorthand version of Ellen, Elena, and perhaps most important of all, Helen. The name is most associated with Helen of Troy who was said to be the most beautiful woman throughout all of Greece and the indirect cause of the Trojan War. Though starting mythical conflicts may seem unfortunate, Helen’s story is one as old as time itself. If you're a lover of Greek Mythology, Eleni is a great nod to a famous story that's passed through the generations.