Eleanor
Eleanor is a girl name of Old French / Provençal origin meaning “Bright, shining one”, pronounced EL-uh-nor. It ranked #12 in the United States in 2025, given to 7,649 babies, and peaked at #12 in 2025. Common nicknames: Ellie, Nora, Nell.
How popular is Eleanor 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 Eleanor mean, and where does it come from?
Eleanor is believed to derive from the Provençal name Aliénor, though its exact etymology is debated; it may come from the Latin "alia Aenor" (the other Aenor) or from a Germanic root meaning "bright" or "shining." The name was brought to England by Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most powerful women in medieval Europe, who was queen consort of both France and England. Her granddaughter Eleanor of Castile was also beloved, and King Edward I erected the famous Eleanor Crosses in her memory. The name has experienced a strong revival in the 21st century, prized for its elegance and historical gravitas.
How is Eleanor used around the world?
Eleanor is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 12+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Eleanor?
Famous People Named Eleanor
- Eleanor Roosevelt — American First Lady and human rights activist
- Eleanor of Aquitaine — Queen of France and England
- Eleanor Catton — New Zealand novelist (The Luminaries)
Similar Names to Eleanor
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Sibling Name Ideas for Eleanor
Looking for names that pair well with Eleanor? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Eleanor mean?
Eleanor is a girl name of Old French / Provençal origin meaning "Bright, shining one." Eleanor is believed to derive from the Provençal name Aliénor, though its exact etymology is debated; it may come from the Latin "alia Aenor" (the other Aenor) or from a Germanic root meaning "bright" or "shining." The name was brought to England by Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most powerful women in medieval Europe, who was queen consort of both France and England.
How do you pronounce Eleanor?
Eleanor is pronounced EL-uh-nor. Common variations include Elinor, Eleanore, Eleonora.
Is Eleanor a girl name?
Yes, Eleanor is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ellie, Nora, Nell, Lea.