Name meaning & originEllie
/EL-ee/
Ellie is a Greek, Hebrew, English baby name pronounced /EL-ee/. Ellie literally translates to 'shining light' or 'God is my light'.
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Meaning of Ellie
Ellie literally translates to 'shining light' or 'God is my light'.
The name originated as a shortened pet name for several longer names beginning with 'El', most notably Eleanor and Elizabeth. Its roots can be traced to the Greek 'Eleanor' meaning 'bright, shining one' and the Hebrew 'Elisheba' meaning 'God is my oath'. Over the 19th and 20th centuries, it evolved from a nickname into a standalone given name in its own right.
- Origin
- Greek, Hebrew, English
- Pronunciation
- /EL-ee/
Cultural background
It is currently a highly popular choice in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.
Variations & nicknames
- Elly
- Elli
- Elle
- Ellia
- Ellely
Famous people named Ellie
Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.
Ellie Goulding
English singer and songwriter
Music · 2000s–Present
Ellie Kemper
American actress and comedian known for 'The Office'
Film · 2000s–Present
Ellie Williams
Protagonist of the video game and TV series 'The Last of Us'
Fiction · 2010s–Present
Ellie Simmonds
British Paralympic gold medalist swimmer
Sport · 2000s–Present
Ellie Taylor
English comedian and television presenter
Television · 2010s–Present
Frequently asked about Ellie
- Is Ellie a nickname or a full name?
- While it began as a nickname for Eleanor, Elizabeth, or Eloise, it is now widely registered as a standalone legal name.
- What is the most common gender for the name Ellie?
- Ellie is predominantly used as a girl's name.
- Does Ellie have a religious meaning?
- Through its connection to Elizabeth, it carries the Hebrew meaning 'God is my oath,' and through Eleanor, it is linked to the concept of divine light.
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