Helen Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationHEL-en / /ˈhɛl.ən/Greek; Latin
Meaning
Greek: light; Latin: bright, shining
Historical & Cultural Background
Helen is derived from the Greek name 'Helene', which is often associated with the mythological figure Helen of Troy, known for her beauty. The name has been popular in various cultures and languages throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it became widely used in Christian contexts due to Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine. The name has maintained a presence in literature and popular culture over the centuries.
Trend Summary
Helen has seen a decline in popularity in the United States since the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Helena
- Elena
- Lena
International Variants
- Elena (Spanish)
- Helena (Latin)
- Alena (Slavic)
Famous people named Helen
Helen Keller was an American author and activist known for her work in education for the deaf and blind.
Helen Mirren is a British actress recognized for her roles in film and television, including winning an Academy Award.
Helen of Troy is a figure from Greek mythology, often described as the most beautiful woman in the world.
Helen Hayes was an American actress, known as the 'First Lady of American Theatre' and a recipient of multiple awards.
Fictional characters named Helen
Helen Parr is a character from the animated film 'The Incredibles', known as Elastigirl, who possesses superpowers.
Helen Graham is the protagonist in 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall' by Anne Brontë, who challenges societal norms.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Helen was first seen in the United States in 1881. Helen has ranked as high as #797 nationally, which occurred in 1927, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Helen has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Helen (1989)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| DC | 9 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1881 | 7 |
| 1883 | 5 |
| 1885 | 6 |
| 1888 | 5 |
| 1889 | 8 |
| 1890 | 7 |
| 1891 | 9 |
| 1892 | 7 |
| 1893 | 8 |
| 1894 | 8 |
| 1895 | 17 |
| 1896 | 10 |
| 1897 | 16 |
| 1898 | 17 |
| 1899 | 16 |
| 1900 | 18 |
| 1901 | 17 |
| 1902 | 30 |
| 1903 | 29 |
| 1904 | 15 |
| 1905 | 26 |
| 1906 | 26 |
| 1907 | 20 |
| 1908 | 30 |
| 1909 | 36 |
| 1910 | 30 |
| 1911 | 46 |
| 1912 | 38 |
| 1913 | 51 |
| 1914 | 54 |
| 1915 | 60 |
| 1916 | 83 |
| 1917 | 61 |
| 1918 | 80 |
| 1919 | 60 |
| 1920 | 63 |
| 1921 | 66 |
| 1922 | 67 |
| 1923 | 62 |
| 1924 | 79 |
| 1925 | 80 |
| 1926 | 74 |
| 1927 | 92 |
| 1928 | 88 |
| 1929 | 77 |
| 1930 | 83 |
| 1931 | 67 |
| 1932 | 89 |
| 1933 | 82 |
| 1934 | 49 |
| 1935 | 67 |
| 1936 | 52 |
| 1937 | 66 |
| 1938 | 65 |
| 1939 | 45 |
| 1940 | 38 |
| 1941 | 49 |
| 1942 | 37 |
| 1943 | 38 |
| 1944 | 36 |
| 1945 | 30 |
| 1946 | 33 |
| 1947 | 24 |
| 1948 | 22 |
| 1949 | 27 |
| 1950 | 19 |
| 1951 | 14 |
| 1952 | 17 |
| 1953 | 20 |
| 1954 | 14 |
| 1955 | 19 |
| 1956 | 17 |
| 1957 | 14 |
| 1958 | 20 |
| 1959 | 15 |
| 1960 | 10 |
| 1961 | 12 |
| 1962 | 16 |
| 1963 | 9 |
| 1964 | 9 |
| 1965 | 14 |
| 1966 | 5 |
| 1967 | 8 |
| 1968 | 12 |
| 1969 | 10 |
| 1970 | 9 |
| 1971 | 9 |
| 1972 | 9 |
| 1974 | 7 |
| 1975 | 6 |
| 1976 | 9 |
| 1977 | 6 |
| 1978 | 5 |
| 1979 | 5 |
| 1984 | 7 |
| 1985 | 6 |
| 1986 | 6 |
| 1988 | 7 |
| 1989 | 10 |
| 1990 | 7 |
| 1991 | 5 |
| 1993 | 5 |
| 1994 | 5 |
| 2004 | 5 |