Ellen is a name of English origin that has been popular for centuries. It is a diminutive form of the name Eleanor, which is derived from the Old French name Alienor, itself originating from the Germanic elements adal "noble" and han "home". Therefore, Ellen means "noble home ruler".
The name Ellen first appeared in English literature during the 13th century. It was used by many notable figures throughout history, including Ellen Terry, a renowned Victorian actress, and Ellen Glasgow, an American Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist.
Today, Ellen remains a popular choice for parents looking to name their daughter with a classic yet timeless name. Its simple yet elegant sound makes it easy to pronounce and remember, making it a versatile option across various cultures. Overall, the name Ellen carries a rich history and meaningful significance, reflecting its noble origins.
The name Ellen experienced a steady increase in popularity from the late 19th century until peaking around the mid-20th century. Between 1880 and 1951, there were consistently over 500 births per year, with the number reaching as high as 5945 in 1951. After this peak, the popularity of the name began to decline, dropping below 3000 births per year by 1968. Since then, the name Ellen has continued to decrease in usage, with only 237 births recorded in 2023. Overall, there were a total of 274796 births named Ellen from 1880 to 2023.