Ileana

girlRomanianChristian

Ileana is a Christian girl name of Romanian origin, meaning “Possibly from Elena, 'light'”.

MeaningPossibly from Elena, 'light'
GenderGirl
OriginRomanian
Pronunciationee-lee-AH-nah
TraditionChristian
Used inRomania, Mexico, Puerto Rico

Meaning and origin of Ileana

Ileana is a Romanian name made famous by the heroine Ileana Cosânzeana, a fairy-tale princess of great beauty in Romanian folklore. Its origin is uncertain; it is often thought to be related to Elena (Helen), traditionally linked with Greek words for light or torch, though that link is not proven. Princess Ileana of Romania, daughter of King Ferdinand, carried it in the twentieth century. It is also used in Spanish- and Italian-speaking countries.

Is Ileana a Christian name?

Ileana is not a biblical or saint's name in its own right, but it is used by Orthodox and Catholic families. Its main associations are folkloric.

How popular is Ileana?

Known in Romania and used moderately in Latin America, especially Mexico and the Caribbean.

Gifts with the name Ileana

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Spellings and variants of Ileana

IlianaIleaneEleanaElena

Names similar to Ileana

ElenaLilianaIlianaMariela

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Ileana mean?

Ileana means 'Possibly from Elena, 'light''. It is of Romanian origin.

Is Ileana a Christian name?

Ileana is not a biblical or saint's name in its own right, but it is used by Orthodox and Catholic families. Its main associations are folkloric.

How do you pronounce Ileana?

Ileana is pronounced ee-lee-AH-nah.

Is Ileana a boy or girl name?

Ileana is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.