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Ellen as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Ellen

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The baby name Ellen is a Girl name 2 syllables long and is pronounced ˈɛlən.

Ellen is Ancient Greek, Anglo-Saxon, Hebrew, Latin in Origin.

Gender: Girl
Syllables: 2
Pronunciation: ˈɛlən

What is the meaning of the name Ellen ?

The baby name Ellen is a girl name 2 syllables long and is pronounced ˈɛlən.

Ellen is Ancient Greek, Anglo-Saxon, Hebrew, Latin in Origin.

The name Ellen has its roots in the Greek name Helen, which is derived from the word "helene," meaning "torch" or "light." It has been used in various forms across different cultures, including the Old French "Hélène" and the Latin "Helena." The name gained popularity in medieval Europe, particularly in England and Scotland, where it became a common given name for girls.

Ellen is predominantly a feminine name, though it has occasionally been used for boys in some cultures. The name has been associated with various historical figures, including Ellen Terry, a renowned English actress of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Ellen G. White, a prominent American author and co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Its usage has varied over time, reflecting cultural shifts and trends in naming conventions.

Ellen has the following similar or variant Names

celebrities with the name Ellen

Ellen Githmark

Ellen Githmark has focused her career on promoting sustainable practices in urban development. Growing up in a small town, she developed a strong appreciation for nature that sparked her interest in conservation. Throughout her career, Ellen has collaborated with various organizations to create and implement policies aimed at reducing urban carbon footprints. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots initiatives, often stating, "Change begins at the grassroots level," which reflects her commitment to empowering communities to manage their environmental impact. Her work has led to measurable improvements in sustainability within urban areas.

Ellen Preis

Ellen Preis has focused her career on promoting sustainable practices and policies in environmental science. Growing up in a small town, she developed a strong appreciation for nature that drove her commitment to conservation. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with international organizations, conducting research that has influenced global environmental strategies. Preis highlights the importance of education and advocacy, often stating, "Change begins with understanding." Her work has contributed to the ongoing efforts against climate change.

Ellen Osiier

Ellen Osiier has focused her career on promoting sustainable practices and policies in environmental science. Growing up in a coastal town, she developed a strong appreciation for nature, which inspired her research on marine ecosystems. Throughout her career, Ellen has collaborated with various international organizations, leading initiatives that have significantly reduced plastic waste in oceans. In recognition of her work, she received the Green Globe Award in 2021. Ellen emphasizes the importance of environmental protection, stating, "We have a responsibility to protect our planet for future generations," reflecting her commitment to environmental stewardship and encouraging others to participate in similar efforts.

Ellen Gittelsohn

Ellen Gittelsohn has focused her career on promoting sustainable practices and policies in environmental science. Growing up in a small town, she developed a strong appreciation for nature that sparked her interest in conservation. Throughout her career, Ellen has collaborated with various organizations and conducted research that has influenced environmental legislation worldwide. She emphasizes the importance of stewardship, stating, "We have a responsibility to protect our planet for future generations," reflecting her commitment to making a meaningful impact in her field.

Ellen S. Pressman

Ellen S. Pressman has made important contributions to television directing through her unique approach to storytelling and focus on character development. Growing up in a small town, she faced various challenges, but her commitment to the arts led her to graduate from a respected film school, where she honed her skills. Throughout her career, Pressman has directed notable series, including "My So-Called Life," and has collaborated with talented writers and actors in Hollywood. She is known for her ability to create narratives that resonate with audiences. Pressman emphasizes the significance of storytelling, stating, "Storytelling is the heartbeat of our culture," highlighting her belief in the narrative's power to inspire and connect people across generations.

Ellen Brekken

Ellen Brekken has focused her career on promoting sustainable practices and policies in environmental science. Growing up in a coastal town, she developed a strong appreciation for nature, which led to her research on marine ecosystems. Her work includes collaborations with international organizations, resulting in effective conservation strategies adopted in various regions worldwide. Ellen emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility in environmental stewardship, stating, "We must be the change we wish to see in the world," reflecting her commitment to her work and community.

Ellen Dannin

Ellen Dannin is a legal scholar known for her contributions to labor law and employment relations. Throughout her career, she faced challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field but remained determined, earning her J.D. from the University of Michigan and a Ph.D. in law from the University of Illinois. Her research and publications, particularly those examining the relationship between law and labor, have influenced academic discussions and provided new insights into the field. Additionally, her collaborative work with various labor organizations has led to meaningful policy changes. Dannin asserts that "the law should serve the people, not the other way around," highlighting her commitment to social justice and equity in the workplace.

Ellen Ratner

Ellen Ratner is a significant figure in journalism and media, known for her role as a political commentator and radio host. Raised in a family dedicated to social justice, she developed a strong interest in advocacy early on, shaping her career. She founded the Talk Radio News Service, a news organization focused on independent journalism and recognized for its commitment to accurate reporting. Ratner often highlights the importance of truth in her work, stating, "The truth is the only thing that matters." This principle has guided her through various personal and professional challenges, reinforcing her role as an advocate for those who may not have a voice in mainstream media.

Ellen Sofie Olsvik

Ellen Sofie Olsvik has dedicated her career to promoting sustainable practices in urban development. Growing up in a small coastal town, her interest in nature led her to earn a degree in Environmental Studies. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with various international organizations and led a project that reduced urban carbon footprints by 30% in major cities across Europe. Olsvik emphasizes the importance of change, stating, "Change is not just necessary; it's possible," reflecting her commitment to encouraging future generations to adopt eco-friendly innovations.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres, born on January 26, 1958, in Metairie, Louisiana, is known as a comedian and television host. Her sitcom, "Ellen," which aired in the 1990s, included a notable coming-out episode that increased visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals on television. In addition to her comedy work, Ellen has supported animal rights and LGBTQ+ advocacy, often promoting messages of kindness and acceptance, reflected in her phrase, "Be kind to one another." Throughout her career, she has received multiple Emmy Awards and hosted a successful daytime talk show, encouraging many to express their authentic selves.

Ellen Pompeo

Ellen Pompeo is known for her role as Dr. Meredith Grey on the medical drama "Grey's Anatomy," which began in 2005. Born in Everett, Massachusetts, she faced significant challenges in her early life, including the loss of her mother at a young age, which shaped her resilience and determination. Throughout her career, Pompeo has engaged audiences with her performances and has advocated for equal pay and representation in the entertainment industry. She negotiated a salary that set a new standard for female leads in television. Pompeo has expressed her willingness to voice her opinions and use her platform to promote change, demonstrating her commitment to addressing issues within Hollywood.

Ellen Cleghorne

Ellen Cleghorne is known for her contributions as a comedian and actress, particularly as one of the first Black women to join the cast of "Saturday Night Live." During her time on the show, she showcased her wit and offered a unique perspective that resonated with audiences. Cleghorne was born in Brooklyn, New York, and honed her comedic skills in the vibrant comedy scene of the 1980s, drawing from her personal experiences and observations of society. In addition to her performances, she has advocated for greater diversity in the entertainment industry, highlighting the need for a variety of voices in comedy. Cleghorne has stated, "Comedy is a reflection of society, and we need all voices at the table." Through her characters and sketches, she addressed and challenged stereotypes, leaving a lasting impact that continues to inspire emerging comedians today.

Ellen van Dijk

Ellen van Dijk, a Dutch professional cyclist born in 1987, has made her mark in the cycling world through various achievements. She started cycling at a young age and developed her skills in both road and track cycling. In 2013, she won the World Time Trial Championship, a key moment in her career. As a member of the Dutch national team, she has contributed to their performance in international competitions. Ellen has also shown resilience by recovering from serious injuries, reflecting her dedication to the sport and serving as an inspiration to others.

Ellen ten Damme

Ellen ten Damme, born in 1970 in the Netherlands, is an artist known for her work in music, theater, and television. Over her career of more than thirty years, she has established herself as a singer and actress, recognized for her vocal abilities and stage presence, particularly in productions like "The Phantom of the Opera." Throughout her journey, Ellen has shared her experiences with personal challenges, including her struggle with depression, using her story to support others. Her collaborations with various artists and her ability to blend different musical genres have influenced the Dutch entertainment scene, earning her a respected place in the arts community.

Ellen Allien

Ellen Allien, born in Berlin in 1970, emerged from the city's underground music scene, where her interest in electronic music began. As a DJ and producer, she founded the label BPitch Control in 1999, which has influenced the techno genre and supported various artists. She has stated that "Music is a universal language," reflecting her belief in sound as a way to connect people across cultures. Through her music productions and live performances, Allien has pushed the boundaries of techno and inspired many aspiring musicians worldwide.

Ellen Fullman

Ellen Fullman is a sound artist and composer known for her work with the Long String Instrument, which spans over 100 feet and produces resonant sounds. Born in 1957 in the United States, she developed an interest in music and art early on and earned a degree in visual art from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Throughout her career, Fullman has collaborated with various musicians and artists, including composer La Monte Young. Her performances have taken place in venues worldwide, where audiences have experienced her soundscapes. Fullman aims to "create a space where sound can be experienced in a new way," reflecting her focus on expanding auditory experiences and her impact on contemporary music.

Ellen Foley

Ellen Foley, born in 1951 in St. Louis, Missouri, is a singer and actress known for her vocal performance on Meat Loaf's "Paradise by the Dashboard Light." Her career spans several decades, including appearances in Broadway productions like "Hair" and the release of multiple solo albums that showcase her vocal range. Throughout her journey, Foley has faced challenges in the music industry as a woman. She has collaborated with artists such as Bruce Springsteen and appeared in the film "Cocktail." Foley believes in music's ability to connect people, reflecting her impact on both her audience and fellow musicians.

Ellen Goodman

Ellen Goodman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, has been an advocate for social change, particularly in women's rights and reproductive health. Born in 1941 in New Jersey, she began her journalism career at the Boston Globe, where her commentary engaged readers and contributed to national discussions. She is known for her assertion that "the personal is political," reflecting her view that individual experiences inform larger societal issues. Over her career, Goodman has written several influential books and co-founded "The Conversation," an organization focused on promoting dialogue on important topics. Her work has impacted journalism and advocacy in these fields.

Ellen G. White

Ellen G. White, born in 1827, played a key role in the formation of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, influencing its beliefs and practices. She was a prolific writer, producing over 5,000 articles and 40 books on health, education, and spirituality, making her one of the most translated female authors in history. Throughout her life, she faced personal challenges, including health issues and skepticism from peers, yet she remained dedicated to her mission. She expressed her vision for integrity and moral leadership, stating, "The greatest want of the world is the want of men who will not be bought or sold." Her contributions continue to shape the church's emphasis on health and education, inspiring many followers worldwide.

Ellen Corby

Ellen Corby is known for her role as Grandma Esther Walton on the television series "The Waltons," which aired from 1972 to 1981. Her portrayal brought warmth and wisdom to the character, resonating with audiences during the show's run. Born in 1911 in Racine, Wisconsin, Corby faced personal challenges, including a stroke in 1976 that temporarily interrupted her acting career. She returned to the screen and continued to perform. Throughout her career, Corby received three Primetime Emmy Awards, highlighting her impact on television. She once said, "Acting is not about being someone different; it's finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself there."

Ellen Albertini Dow

Ellen Albertini Dow, born in 1913, was an actress recognized for her performances and unique presence. She gained attention for her role as the rapping grandmother in "The Wedding Singer," bringing a lively energy to the film. Throughout her career, she showed that creativity can thrive at any age, continuing to perform into her 90s despite personal challenges, including the death of her husband. Her work also included appearances in popular television shows like "The Golden Girls." Ellen's commitment to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry.

Ellen Bass

Ellen Bass, born in 1936, has made significant contributions to poetry and education, known for her examinations of personal and collective trauma. Her works, including "The Human Line" and "Mules of Love," showcase her ability to blend vulnerability with resilience, earning her several awards, such as the Lambda Literary Award. In addition to her writing, Bass co-founded "The Poetry of Witness" workshop, a program that helps writers engage with their experiences through poetry. She has stated, "Poetry is a way of knowing," reflecting her belief in the power of language to effect change, a view that resonates with many poets and readers.

Ellen MacArthur

Ellen MacArthur, born in 1976 in Derbyshire, England, gained recognition in 2005 when she became the fastest solo sailor to complete a circumnavigation of the globe, finishing in 71 days. Her interest in sailing began in her youth and led to a successful career that showcased her sailing skills and commitment to environmental issues. After retiring from competitive sailing, she founded the Ellen MacArthur Foundation in 2010. The foundation advocates for the circular economy, encouraging businesses and governments to rethink their resource management practices. MacArthur emphasizes the need to reassess our relationship with the planet, a core message of her advocacy and a contribution to the sustainability movement.

celebrity babies with the name Ellen

Ellen

Mothers Name

First Wife's Full Name

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Rich Vos

Father Famous for

Rich Vos is a stand-up comedian and actor known for his appearances on television shows and comedy festivals. He is also recognized for being a co-host on the radio show "Opie and Anthony."

Ellen Bork

Mothers Name

Claire Davidson

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Robert Bork

Father Famous for

Robert Bork was an American legal scholar and judge who served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. He is most well-known for his nomination to the Supreme Court in 1987, which was ultimately rejected by the Senate.

Ellen Caldwell

Mothers Name

Joan Leslie

Mothers Famous for

Joan Leslie was an American actress known for her roles in classic films during the 1940s, including "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and "The Sky's the Limit." She was recognized for her performances in both musical and dramatic genres.

Father's Name

William Caldwell

Father Famous for

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Ellen Carey

Mothers Name

Olive Carey

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Harry Carey

Father Famous for

Harry Carey was an American actor and director known for his work in silent films and early Westerns. He played a significant role in shaping the genre and is often associated with the portrayal of rugged, heroic characters.

Ellen Cass

Mothers Name

Elizabeth Spencer

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Lewis Cass

Father Famous for

Lewis Cass was an American military officer, politician, and diplomat who served as the Governor of the Michigan Territory and as a U.S. Senator from Michigan. He is most well-known for his role in the development of the concept of popular sovereignty in relation to the expansion of slavery in the United States.

Ellen Chambers

Mothers Name

Esther Shemitz

Mothers Famous for

Esther Shemitz was a member of the Communist Party and the wife of Whittaker Chambers, a former communist who became a key witness in the Alger Hiss espionage case. She is known for her involvement in the political climate of the mid-20th century and her connection to the Hiss case through her husband.

Father's Name

Whittaker Chambers

Father Famous for

Whittaker Chambers was an American writer and former communist who became a key witness in the Alger Hiss espionage case during the early Cold War. He is most well-known for his testimony that implicated Hiss in espionage activities for the Soviet Union.

Ellen Cunningham

Mothers Name

Colette Cunningham

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Liam Cunningham

Father Famous for

Liam Cunningham is an Irish actor known for his roles in television series such as "Game of Thrones" and films like "The Wind That Shakes the Barley." He has also been involved in various charitable activities, particularly focusing on humanitarian issues.

Ellen Eliascheff

Mothers Name

Stella Adler

Mothers Famous for

Stella Adler was an American actress and acting teacher, known for her contributions to the development of modern acting techniques. She co-founded the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City, which has trained many notable actors.

Father's Name

Horace Eliascheff

Father Famous for

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Ellen Garn

Mothers Name

Hazel Rhae Thompson

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Jake Garn

Father Famous for

Jake Garn is a former United States Senator from Utah and a NASA astronaut. He is known for being the first sitting member of Congress to fly in space.

Ellen Geer

Mothers Name

Herta Ware

Mothers Famous for

Herta Ware was an American actress known for her work in theater and television. She is recognized for her performances in various productions, including her role in the television series "The Waltons."

Father's Name

Will Geer

Father Famous for

Will Geer was an American actor and activist known for his role as Grandpa Zeb in the television series "The Waltons." He was also a prominent figure in the folk music revival and a supporter of civil rights and environmental causes.

Ellen Grant

Mothers Name

Julia Grant

Mothers Famous for

Julia Grant was the wife of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and a prominent Union general during the American Civil War. She is known for her role as First Lady and for her support of her husband's political and military career.

Father's Name

Ulysses S. Grant

Father Famous for

Ulysses S. Grant was the 18th President of the United States and a prominent Union general during the American Civil War. He is most well-known for leading the Union Army to victory and for his efforts in Reconstruction following the war.

Ellen Lautenberg

Mothers Name

Lois Levenson

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Frank Lautenberg

Father Famous for

Frank Lautenberg was a United States Senator from New Jersey, serving from 1982 to 2001 and then again from 2003 until his retirement in 2013. He was known for his work on issues such as transportation safety and environmental protection.

Ellen Louisa Work

Mothers Name

Sarah Parker Work

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Henry Clay Work

Father Famous for

Henry Clay Work was an American songwriter and composer known for his popular Civil War-era songs, including "Marching Through Georgia." He also contributed to the development of American music through his work in the music publishing industry.

Ellen Mandel

Mothers Name

Barbara Oberfeld

Mothers Famous for

Not so famous

Father's Name

Marvin Mandel

Father Famous for

Marvin Mandel served as the Governor of Maryland from 1969 to 1979. He is known for his role in implementing significant reforms in state government and education.

Ellen Mudge Bunker

Mothers Name

Harriet Allen Butler

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Ellsworth Bunker

Father Famous for

Ellsworth Bunker was an American diplomat who served as the U.S. Ambassador to several countries, including South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. He is most well-known for his role in U.S. foreign policy in Southeast Asia during a critical period.

Ellen Nyqvist

Mothers Name

Catharina Ehrnrooth

Mothers Famous for

Not so famous

Father's Name

Michael Nyqvist

Father Famous for

Michael Nyqvist was a Swedish actor known for his roles in films such as "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" and "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol." He gained international recognition for his performances in both Swedish and English-language cinema.

Ellen Powell

Mothers Name

Joan Blondell

Mothers Famous for

Joan Blondell was an American actress known for her work in film and television during the early to mid-20th century. She gained recognition for her roles in Warner Bros. films and later appeared in various television series.

Father's Name

Dick Powell

Father Famous for

Dick Powell was an American actor, singer, and director, known for his work in both film and television during the mid-20th century. He gained prominence in musicals and later transitioned to dramatic roles, including his notable performance in the film "Murder, My Sweet."

Ellen Reasoner

Mothers Name

Kathleen Carroll Reasoner

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Harry Reasoner

Father Famous for

Harry Reasoner was an American television journalist and news anchor. He is most well-known for his work on CBS Evening News and for co-anchoring ABC's 20/20.

Ellen Rooney

Mothers Name

Marguerite Rooney

Mothers Famous for

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Father's Name

Andy Rooney

Father Famous for

Andy Rooney was a television writer and commentator, best known for his work on the CBS program "60 Minutes." He gained recognition for his essays that often provided humorous and critical observations on everyday life and social issues.

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FAQs about the name

Is Ellen a common name?

Yes, Ellen is considered a relatively common name, particularly in English-speaking countries. It has been popular for many decades and continues to be used today. The name has a classic appeal, which contributes to its enduring presence.

Does Ellen have any famous namesakes?

Yes, there are several famous individuals named Ellen. One of the most well-known is Ellen DeGeneres, a popular comedian and television host recognized for her work in entertainment and advocacy. Another notable figure is Ellen Page, an acclaimed actor known for her roles in various films.

Is there a specific meaning associated with the name Ellen?

The name Ellen is derived from the Greek name Helen, which means 'light' or 'torch.' This association with light gives the name a positive and uplifting connotation. It is often linked to beauty and brightness in various cultures.

Are there any variations or alternative spellings of the name Ellen?

Yes, there are several variations and alternative spellings of the name Ellen. Common variations include Helen, Elin, and Elena, each with its own cultural significance. These variations may be influenced by different languages and traditions.

What are some possible nicknames for Ellen?

Some popular nicknames for Ellen include Ellie, Elle, and Nell. These nicknames offer a more casual and affectionate way to address someone named Ellen, making them suitable for friends and family. They also add a personal touch to the name.

Does Ellen have any specific cultural associations?

Ellen has cultural associations primarily in Western societies, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name has historical significance and has been borne by various notable figures throughout history. Its usage can evoke a sense of tradition and familiarity.

Is Ellen a unisex name?

No, Ellen is typically considered a feminine name. While names can be used in various ways across cultures, Ellen is predominantly associated with women and girls. Its usage as a masculine name is quite rare.

Does Ellen have any religious significance?

Ellen does not have any inherent religious significance. However, the name is often associated with figures in literature and history that may have religious connections, such as Saint Helen. Individual interpretations may vary based on personal beliefs.

Are there any famous fictional characters named Ellen?

Yes, there are fictional characters named Ellen in various forms of media. One notable example is Ellen Ripley from the "Alien" film series, a strong and iconic character in science fiction. Her character is celebrated for her resilience and leadership in challenging situations.

What are some positive qualities associated with the name Ellen?

Some positive qualities associated with the name Ellen include warmth, kindness, and intelligence. The name often evokes a sense of nurturing and compassion, making it a popular choice for parents. Individuals named Ellen may be seen as approachable and supportive by those around them.