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 244 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.