Eileen
Eileen is a girl's name of Irish origin.
Meaning
Desired, or strength and hazelnut (derived via Norman Aveline).
Origin and history
Eileen is an Anglicized form of the Irish name Eibhlín, which traces back to the Norman name Aveline. It gained widespread popularity in the English-speaking world in the early 20th century. Today, it remains a classic, recognizable name with traditional roots.
Popularity in the United States
189,614 babies in the United States have been named Eileen since 1880. It ranks #209 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #636.
States where it is most popular
- NY (23.3 %)
- PA (10.4 %)
- IL (7.3 %)
- NJ (7.3 %)
- CA (7.2 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 81 |
| 1890-1900 | 438 |
| 1900-1910 | 1,351 |
| 1910-1920 | 12,706 |
| 1920-1930 | 28,588 |
| 1930-1940 | 22,258 |
| 1940-1950 | 34,695 |
| 1950-1960 | 36,570 |
| 1960-1970 | 24,868 |
| 1970-1980 | 7,915 |
| 1980-1990 | 5,689 |
| 1990-2000 | 4,109 |
| 2000-2010 | 3,801 |
| 2010-2019 | 3,836 |
| 2020-2029 | 2,709 |
Famous people named Eileen
- Eileen Collins: Astronaut, Air Force Officer
- Eileen Davidson: Actress, Author
Nicknames
Leen, Ellie, Eily
Fun facts
- Eileen evolved as an Anglicized version of Eibhlín, brought to Ireland by the Anglo-Normans.
- The name gained major pop-culture prominence via Dexys Midnight Runners' 1982 hit single 'Come On Eileen'.