Helène

Helène is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It is the French form of Helena/Helena, which comes from the Greek name Ἑλένη (Hélēnē). The exact meaning is uncertain, but the name is traditionally associated with beauty and brightness and is culturally linked to Helen of Troy, a central figure in classical mythology.

In French-speaking contexts, the name is written Hélène with an acute accent. In English, it is often rendered Helene or Helena, and related forms include Helena, Elena, Ellen, and Nell. The name is used in many European languages and has numerous local variants, such as Helena in Spanish and Portuguese, and Elena in Italian and Romanian.

Saint Helena, known as Sainte-Hélène in French, is a historical figure associated with the later Roman Empire; she is traditionally credited with locating and identifying relics of the True Cross. The name has appeared in literature and film and has been adopted by many families around the world.

Notable people named Helène/Hélène include: Hélène Grimaud (born 1968), French pianist; Hélène Darroze (born 1967), French chef; Helene Fischer (born 1984), German singer. See also Helena (name) and Elena for related forms.