Eileen

What does the baby name Eileen mean? Learn about what Eileen means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Eileen - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Eileen
E-I-L-E-E-N, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Eileen
ie-LEEN
ay-LEEN
eye LEEN
Meaning of Eileen
Light, beautiful bird, torch of light, pleasant, bringer of light.
Origin of Eileen
The name 'Eileen' has Irish origins and is derived from the Gaelic name Eibhlín. It is a variant of the name Evelyn, which itself has roots in the Old French name Aveline. The earliest known use of the name 'Eileen' can be traced back to Ireland in the 19th century, where it gained popularity among Irish families.
American Names
Celtic Names
English Names
Gaelic Names
Greek Names
Irish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Eileen
Aila
Ailean
Ailee
Aileen
Ailene
Ailey
Ailie
Ailli
Aleen
Alena
Alenor
Alina
Aline
Annora
Eibhlin
Elaine
Eleanor
Eleanora
Elena
Eleni
Elenore
Elinor
Elinora
Ella
Ellen
Ellena
Elnora
Enora
Galina
Halina
Helen
Helena
Helene
Helenka
Ileana
Ilene
Jalana
Jelena
Laine
Lana
Leana
Lena
Lenore
Leonora
Leonore
Liana
Lina
Lyan
Nell
Nellie
Nona
Nora
Noreen
Norene
Norina
Norine
Valenka
Yalena
Yelena
Yilina
Popularity of Eileen
The popularity of the name 'Eileen' has varied over time. In the early 20th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, particularly in English-speaking countries. This increase in popularity can be attributed to the influence of Irish immigrants who brought the name with them to new lands. 'Eileen' remained a popular choice for girls throughout the mid-20th century but has since declined in usage.
Eileen currently has 242 likes, and is in the top 4% of liked girl's names. The name Olive is slightly more popular than Eileen.

Etymology of Eileen

The name 'Eileen' has its linguistic roots in the Gaelic language. It is believed to be derived from the name Aveline, which comes from the Old French word 'aveline', meaning hazelnut. The hazelnut has symbolic significance in Celtic mythology, representing wisdom and poetic inspiration. This connection to nature and wisdom adds depth to the meaning of the name 'Eileen'.

Cultural Significance of Eileen

The name 'Eileen' holds cultural significance in Irish communities. It is often associated with Irish heritage and is considered a traditional Irish name. In Ireland, 'Eileen' is sometimes used as an anglicized version of the Irish name Eibhlín, which means 'beauty' or 'radiance'. The name 'Eileen' has also been used in literature and music, further cementing its cultural significance.