How to say it
e · LAI · na
/əˈleɪ.nə/
Feminine
Elaina
Light, torch
What it means
A variant of Elaine, the Old French form of Helen, from a Greek root meaning 'torch' or 'light.'
Elaina is a softened, modern spelling of Elaine, which is the Old French form of Helen, from a Greek root tied to 'torch' and 'bright light.' Elaine herself runs through Arthurian legend, including Elaine of Astolat, Tennyson's Lady of Shalott. The -aina ending makes it flow alongside Elena and Alaina, all part of the same luminous Helen family. Lainey and Lana serve as shorts.
Popularity over time
peaked at #250 in 2020, currently #267 in 2025.
Source: U.S. Social Security Administration, names given to at least 5 babies in a year, 1880–present. See where the names are moving
Heads-up notes
- Spelling
A respelling of Elaine; sits a hair away from Alaina and Elena, which share the Helen root.
- Nickname
Lainey and Lana both fall out of it.
Who's worn it
Historical figures, characters, and public faces who share the name. The cultural surface, for whatever weight you want to give it.
- Elaine of Astolat the Arthurian figure behind Tennyson's Lady of Shalott
Spelling variants
- Elaine
- Elayna
- Elaena
Names with the same feeling
See Elaina from another angle
By meaning