Elaine
Elaine is a girl name of Old French (variant of Helen) origin meaning “Bright, shining light”, pronounced ee-LAYN. It ranked #305 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,007 babies, and peaked at #42 in 1938. Common nicknames: Ellie, Lainey.
How popular is Elaine 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 Elaine mean, and where does it come from?
Elaine emerged in medieval France as a variant of Helen, tracing back to the Greek "Helene." It gained lasting fame through Arthurian legend, where the tragic Elaine of Astolat — the "Lady of Shalott" — died of unrequited love for Sir Lancelot, a story immortalized in Tennyson's poetry and Pre-Raphaelite art. The name enjoyed strong popularity in the mid-twentieth-century English-speaking world and, though it has declined from its peak, retains a timeless, sophisticated appeal.
How is Elaine used around the world?
Elaine is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Elaine?
Famous People Named Elaine
- Elaine Chao — U.S. Secretary of Transportation and Labor
- Elaine Paige — British stage and recording artist known for "Memory"
- Elaine Stritch — American actress and singer
Similar Names to Elaine
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Sibling Name Ideas for Elaine
Looking for names that pair well with Elaine? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Elaine mean?
Elaine is a girl name of Old French (variant of Helen) origin meaning "Bright, shining light." Elaine emerged in medieval France as a variant of Helen, tracing back to the Greek "Helene." It gained lasting fame through Arthurian legend, where the tragic Elaine of Astolat — the "Lady of Shalott" — died of unrequited love for Sir Lancelot, a story immortalized in Tennyson's poetry and Pre-Raphaelite art.
How do you pronounce Elaine?
Elaine is pronounced ee-LAYN. Common variations include Elayne, Elaina, Helaine.
Is Elaine a girl name?
Yes, Elaine is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ellie, Lainey.