Elina is a feminine given name used primarily in Estonian, Finnish, and Swedish, where it serves as a form of Helen. The name ultimately derives from the Greek Helene (Ἑλένη), a name of uncertain etymology. It is often linked to the Greek word helene (ἑλένη) meaning "torch" or "corposant" (a luminous electrical discharge on a ship's mast), or alternatively to selene (σελήνη) meaning "moon." Etymology and Historical Background The root of Elina is Helen, a name famous in Greek mythology as the daughter of Zeus and Leda whose abduction by Paris sparked the Trojan War. Later, Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine (4th century AD), bore the name; legend credits her with discovering the True Cross. Early Christians favored the name after the saint rather than the mythological figure. In medieval England, it was commonly spelled Ellen; the spelling Helen only became standard after the Renaissance. The name spread through Europe in various forms, and in Estonia, Finland, and Sweden, Elina and its variants (Eliina, Elena) became established as common given names. Notable Bearers Numerous notable women share the name Elina, including Ukrainian-born Russian actress Elina Bystritskaya (1928–2019), Russian-Armenian tennis player Elina Avanesyan (born 2001), Estonian singer Elina Born (born 1994), Latvian basketball players Elīna Babkina (born 1989) and Elīna Dikaioulaku (born 1989), Armenian chess grandmaster Elina Danielian (born 1976), Swiss-Albanian singer Elina Duni (born 1981), Swedish diver Elina Eggers (born 1987), Russian-American journalist Elina Fuhrman (born 1969), and Latvian opera singer Elīna Garanča (born 1976). Notably, Elina Moniz (born 1974) is a Spanish actress, though the name also appears internationally. Variants and Related Names Regional variants include Estonian and Finnish Eliina, while related forms such as Heleena (Finnish), Helena (Swedish, Sorbian), and Ellen (Swedish) all share the same Helenic root. Diminutives include Swedish Ella and Lena, Estonian Heli and Leena, and Swedish Elna. Further afield, the name has analogues in Welsh Elen, Armenian Heghine, and English Elaine. Cultural Significance In addition to being a personal name, Elina was the name of an ancient Greek city in the Epirus region, named after the Elinoi tribe. Today, the name remains popular across Northern and Eastern Europe, appreciated for its melodic sound and classical connection. Meaning: "torch," "corposant," or "moon" (via Greek helene/selene) Origin: Primarily Estonian, Finnish, Swedish form of Helen Type: Feminine given name Usage regions: Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, Armenia, Russia, Spain