Lena (name)
Lena is a feminine given name of various origins and meanings. It is often considered a short form of names such as Helena, Magdalena, or Eleana, but it can also be used as an independent name.
Origin and Meaning:
- Helena: Lena can be a diminutive of Helena, a Greek name derived from "hēlios" meaning "sun" or "torch." In this context, Lena can carry the meaning of "bright," "shining," or "radiant."
- Magdalena: Lena is a common short form of Magdalena, a name of Aramaic origin meaning "woman from Magdala." Magdala was a town on the Sea of Galilee.
- Eleana/Elena: Lena can also be derived from Eleana or Elena, which are variations of Helen.
- Other Origins: In some cultures, Lena may have different origins and meanings, potentially related to nature or other cultural elements.
Popularity:
The popularity of the name Lena varies significantly by country and region. It has been a consistently popular name in several European countries and has seen increasing popularity in other parts of the world in recent years.
Notable People Named Lena:
Many notable individuals bear the name Lena, contributing to fields such as acting, writing, music, and sports. Examples include:
- Lena Dunham (American writer and actress)
- Lena Olin (Swedish actress)
- Lena Meyer-Landrut (German singer)
Variations and Related Names:
Related names and variations of Lena include:
- Helen
- Helena
- Magda
- Magdalena
- Elena
- Eleanor