Ileen

Ileen is a feminine name that serves as a variant of Eileen, which itself derives from the Irish Eibhlín, a form of Helen. The name ultimately traces back to Greek origins meaning "torch" or "bright light." Ileen emerged primarily in the early to mid-20th century in the United States as parents sought variations on the more common Eileen. The simplified spelling makes the pronunciation immediately clear while retaining the melodic two-syllable flow. While never reaching widespread popularity, Ileen has a vintage charm characteristic of names from the 1930s-1950s era. The name has a gentle, unpretentious quality that feels both familiar and uncommon. For parents seeking a name with Irish heritage but a simplified American spelling, Ileen offers an appealing alternative to more common variants.

Pronounced eye-LEEN.

As of October 2026, Ileen ranked #14089 in US births in 2024 SSA, peaked at #1069 in 1925.