Elena

Pronounced: eh-LAY-nuh

Variations: Alena, Elaina, Ellena, Ilana

Greek, Italian, Spanish, Bulgarian, Slavic

The name Elena is derived from the Greek name Helene, which means "torch" or "shining light". In Greek mythology, Helen was the daughter of Zeus and Leda, and was famously abducted by Paris of Troy, sparking the Trojan War. The name has been used by various saints and queens throughout history.