Ilona
Ilona is a girl's name of Hungarian origin.
Meaning
Torch, shining light, or bright one.
Origin and history
Ilona is the traditional Hungarian form of the Greek name Helen. It historically means 'torch' or 'corposant' and is traditionally associated with light and brightness. In the United States, it is a uncommon but recognized classical choice with strong Eastern and Central European heritage ties.
Popularity in the United States
3,332 babies in the United States have been named Ilona since 1880. It ranks #3076 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1953.
States where it is most popular
- NY (32.5 %)
- CA (22.3 %)
- PA (11.8 %)
- NJ (9.8 %)
- OH (8.8 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 5 |
| 1910-1920 | 77 |
| 1920-1930 | 106 |
| 1930-1940 | 113 |
| 1940-1950 | 738 |
| 1950-1960 | 571 |
| 1960-1970 | 374 |
| 1970-1980 | 259 |
| 1980-1990 | 174 |
| 1990-2000 | 209 |
| 2000-2010 | 282 |
| 2010-2019 | 276 |
| 2020-2029 | 148 |
Famous people named Ilona
- Ilona Massey: Actress, Singer
- Ilona Zrinyi: Noblewoman, Heroine
Nicknames
Loni, Lonnie, Ili
Fun facts
- In Hungarian folklore, Ilona is often associated with Tündér Ilona (Fairy Ilona), a legendary queen of beauty.
- The name developed as the Hungarian equivalent of Helen, brought to Central Europe through Christian traditions.