Ilenia

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Fact sheet

Name
Ilenia
Gender
Girl name
Syllables
3

Ilenia represents an alternative spelling of Ylenia and is an extended form of the name Ilena, which has its origins in the names Helena and Helene.

What does the name Ilenia mean?

The name Ilenia, a variant of Ylenia, is derived from Ilena and has its roots in Helena or Helene. It carries meanings such as 'the Shining', 'the Radiant', 'the Bright', 'the Sun-like', 'the Beautiful', 'the Torch', or 'the Moon'. The origin can be traced back to Ancient Greek, where the name is derived from one of three terms: helénē (ἑλένη), meaning 'the Torch', 'the Light', or 'the Shine', hēlios (ἥλιος), meaning 'the Sun' or 'the Sunlight', or selēnē (σελήνη), meaning 'the Moon'. Additionally, it is sometimes used as a South Slavic diminutive of Milena. Other variants include Jelena, Yelena, Yalena, Ilona, Illona, Ilon, Ylona, Illeana, Ileana, Yelene, Jelene, Yellena, Jelenka, Jelka, Ilenka, Ylenka, Alenka, Olena, Olenna, Olenka, Jelin, Jelina, Ilonka, Ilka, Ilca, and Iluska. The name found its way into Greek mythology, where Helena is considered the daughter of Zeus and Leda and is revered as the most beautiful woman in the world. It is believed that Helena also has a connection to Helios, the Greek sun god.

Where does the name Ilenia come from?

Ilenia is a female first name that comes from Ancient Greek and carries the meaning 'the Shining' or 'the Bright'. The etymology consists of the Ancient Greek terms helénē for 'the Torch', 'the Light', or 'the Shine', hēlios for 'the Sun', 'the Sunlight', or 'the Sunrays', and selēnē for 'the Moon'. This name is prevalent in the Italian language.

How do you pronounce Ilenia?

Ilenia is a melodic name consisting of four to five syllables and has a soft flowing sound. In German, it is usually pronounced as 'I-le-ni-a' [ileˈniːa]. The name begins with a clear I sound that conveys freshness. The long I in the penultimate syllable enhances the bright sound, while the open A at the end creates a sense of expansiveness and harmony. This makes Ilenia appear feminine, harmonious, and sonorous.

When is the name day of Ilenia?

The name days for Ilenia are celebrated on April 26, May 21, August 18, October 29, and November 15.

Popularity

In Germany, Ilenia is among the sought-after first names and currently ranks 1,630th on the list of the most common female baby names. Its best ranking was achieved in 2001 when it reached 251st place. In the last ten years, Ilenia has been given as a first name approximately 290 times, placing it 1,245th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 1,303rd.

Nicknames & pet names

Aneli / Avelli / Ila / Ile / Ileni / Ili / Illi / Illy / Leni / Nena

Famous people

  • Ilenia Antonini (actress)
  • Ilenia Draisci (sprinter from Italy)
  • Ilenia Lazzarin (Italian actress)

Frequently asked questions about the name Ilenia

What is the origin of the name Ilenia?

Ilenia is a female first name with roots in Ancient Greek. It is commonly used in the Italian language.

What does the name Ilenia mean?

The name Ilenia means 'the Shining', 'the Radiant', or 'the Bright' and also has connections to the terms for sun and moon.

How popular is the name Ilenia?

Ilenia is particularly popular in Italy, but is also increasingly found in other countries.

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