Elna
Elna is a girl's name of Norse origin.
Meaning
Torch, bright, or shining light.
Origin and history
Elna is a Scandinavian short form of Helena, which traces back to the Ancient Greek name meaning 'torch' or 'corposant'. It was moderately popular in the early 20th century in the United States and remains a soft, vintage choice today. Modern usage in the U.S. is relatively rare, carrying a subtle retro charm.
Popularity in the United States
4,478 babies in the United States have been named Elna since 1880. It ranks #2620 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #2041.
States where it is most popular
- TX (22 %)
- MN (11.3 %)
- AL (10.6 %)
- MI (7.4 %)
- IA (6.1 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 27 |
| 1890-1900 | 171 |
| 1900-1910 | 313 |
| 1910-1920 | 1,139 |
| 1920-1930 | 1,167 |
| 1930-1940 | 743 |
| 1940-1950 | 448 |
| 1950-1960 | 230 |
| 1960-1970 | 81 |
| 1970-1980 | 32 |
| 1980-1990 | 26 |
| 1990-2000 | 0 |
| 2000-2010 | 5 |
| 2010-2019 | 36 |
| 2020-2029 | 60 |
Famous people named Elna
- Elna Reinach: tennis player
Fun facts
- Elna originated in Denmark and Sweden as a contracted form of the classical name Helena.
- In the United States, the name experienced most of its usage in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.