Lena
“A short, elegant name derived from Greek Magdalena (meaning 'of Magdala'), Lena gained international recognition through the 1950s film icon Lena Horne and later through the Swedish singer Lena Philipsson. The name has a lyrical, feminine quality while remaining strong and unpretentious, making it perennially appealing across cultures.”
Lena is a girl's name of Greek origin. A short, elegant name derived from Greek Magdalena (meaning 'of Magdala'), Lena gained international recognition through the 1950s film icon Lena Horne and later through the Swedish singer Lena Philipsson. The name has a lyrical, feminine quality while remaining strong and unpretentious, making it perennially appealing across cultures.
Popular across Scandinavian, Germanic, and English-speaking countries; carries a sophisticated European sensibility.
The name Lena has roots in the Greek language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “a short, elegant name derived from Greek Magdalena (meaning 'of Magdala'), Lena gained international recognition through the 1950s film icon Lena Horne and later through the Swedish singer Lena Philipsson”.
Cultural context: Popular across Scandinavian, Germanic, and English-speaking countries; carries a sophisticated European sensibility.
As a girl's name, Lena carries the character of its Greek heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.
Lena Dunham
EntertainmentAmericanCreator and star of HBO's 'Girls,' writer, filmmaker
An American writer, producer, and actress best known for creating and starring in the HBO series 'Girls.' She is known for her contributions to television and feminist discourse.
1986 – present
Lena Waithe
EntertainmentAmericanActress in 'The Chi,' Emmy winner, LGBTQ+ advocate
An American actress, writer, and producer known for her role in 'The Chi' and her work in film and television. She is known for her advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment.
1984 – present
Lena Headey
EntertainmentBritishCersei Lannister in 'Game of Thrones,' accomplished actress
A British actress best known for her role as Cersei Lannister in 'Game of Thrones.' She has appeared in numerous films and television productions with acclaimed performances.
1973 – present
Lena Olin
EntertainmentSwedish-AmericanActress in 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' and 'Alias'
A Swedish actress known for her roles in 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' and 'Alias.' She has appeared in numerous acclaimed films and television productions.
1955 – present
Lena Horne
EntertainmentAmericanJazz singer, civil rights activist, 'Stormy Weather'
An American singer, actress, and activist who was a groundbreaking performer during the Civil Rights era. She is known for her jazz standards and her activism against racism.
1917 – 2010
What does the name Lena mean?
Lena means "A short, elegant name derived from Greek Magdalena (meaning 'of Magdala'), Lena gained international recognition through the 1950s film icon Lena Horne and later through the Swedish singer Lena Philipsson. The name has a lyrical, feminine quality while remaining strong and unpretentious, making it perennially appealing across cultures.", and is of Greek origin.
Is Lena a girl name?
Lena is primarily used as a girl's name.
What is the origin of the name Lena?
Lena is of Greek origin. Popular across Scandinavian, Germanic, and English-speaking countries; carries a sophisticated European sensibility.