Eleni is a beautiful and elegant Greek feminine given name that has been used for centuries in Greece and other parts of the Hellenic world. The name is derived from the Greek word "Ἑλένη" (Helene), which means "torch" or "corposant." According to Greek mythology, Eleni was the daughter of Zeus and Leda, who was abducted by Paris, a Trojan prince. This event sparked the Trojan War, as told in Homer's epic poem, the Iliad.
The name Eleni has been popular among Greeks for generations and is often given to girls born around Easter time. It is also associated with the Orthodox Christian church, as Saint Eleni is venerated on May 3rd. In addition, many Greek families choose this name for their daughters in honor of historical figures named Eleni, such as Eleni Gialou, a heroine of the Greek War of Independence.
Eleni has also gained international popularity in recent years due to its beautiful sound and meaningful origin. It is often chosen by parents who appreciate Greek culture and mythology or those looking for a unique yet approachable name for their daughter. Overall, Eleni is a timeless and elegant name with deep roots in Greek history and culture.
The name Eleni experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable rise from the late 1970s onwards. The peak occurred recently, with 214 births recorded in 2022 and 214 in 2023.