Jelena is a Slavic given name used in several languages including Croatian, Estonian, Lithuanian, Macedonian, Serbian, and Slovene. It is a form of Yelena, which itself is the Russian form of Helen. The name ultimately derives from the Greek Ἑλένη (Helene), meaning "torch" or "corposant", or perhaps relating to selene meaning "moon". In Greek mythology, Helen of Troy was the daughter of Zeus and Leda, whose abduction sparked the Trojan War.In Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, the name Jelena is also associated with the South Slavic words jelen ("deer, stag") and jela ("fir tree"), giving it an additional layer of natural symbolism. The name has several diminutives and variants across the region, such as Jela, Jelica, Jelka, as well as Lena, Lenka, and others.Notable BearersSeveral historical and modern figures share the name Jelena. Among the nobility, Saint Jelena of Serbia (d. 1314) was a Serbian queen, and Jelena of Bulgaria (d. 1374) was empress consort of Serbia. More recent bearers include Jelena Petrović Njegoš (Montenegrin princess and Queen of Italy), Jelena Dokić (Australian tennis player of Serbian heritage), and athletes Jelena Blagojević (volleyball) and Jelena Brooks (basketball).Cultural ContextAcross the Balkan region, Jelena is a classic name that has persisted through centuries. In Estonia and Lithuania, it appears as a variant of Helena , Elena , or Ilona. The name's popularity in Slavic countries is partly due to the veneration of Saint Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, whose name was adapted into local forms.Meaning: "Torch", "corposant", or "moon"; also associated with "deer" and "fir tree" in South SlavicOrigin: Greek via Russian and Slavic adaptationsType: Feminine given nameUsing regions: Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Macedonia, Lithuania, Estonia