Eileen
Eileen is a girl name of Irish origin meaning “Desired, radiant”, pronounced eye-LEEN. It ranked #654 in the United States in 2025, given to 437 babies, and peaked at #68 in 1943. Common nicknames: Lee, Leenie, Eily.
How popular is Eileen in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Eileen mean, and where does it come from?
Eileen anglicises the Irish Eibhlín, itself a form of the Norman Aveline that also produced Evelyn, and it is usually read as "desired" or, through a folk link to Helen, "radiant." It came to America with Irish emigration, was in the records by 1882 and peaked at 68th in 1943, which makes it a war-years name in the same class as Maureen, Kathleen and Noreen. Dexys Midnight Runners gave it a second life in 1982 that had nothing to do with its history and everything to do with a chorus nobody can avoid finishing.
How is Eileen used around the world?
Eileen is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 9+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Eileen?
Famous People Named Eileen
- Eileen Collins — American astronaut and the first woman to command a Space Shuttle
- Eileen Chang — Chinese-American novelist and essayist
- Eileen Gu — freestyle skier and Olympic champion
Similar Names to Eileen
If you like Eileen, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Eileen
Looking for names that pair well with Eileen? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Eileen mean?
Eileen is a girl name of Irish origin meaning "Desired, radiant." Eileen anglicises the Irish Eibhlín, itself a form of the Norman Aveline that also produced Evelyn, and it is usually read as "desired" or, through a folk link to Helen, "radiant." It came to America with Irish emigration, was in the records by 1882 and peaked at 68th in 1943, which makes it a war-years name in the same class as Maureen, Kathleen and Noreen.
How do you pronounce Eileen?
Eileen is pronounced eye-LEEN. Common variations include Eibhlín, Aileen, Ilene.
Is Eileen a girl name?
Yes, Eileen is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Lee, Leenie, Eily.