Helen is the English form of the Greek Helene, a name of uncertain meaning that is usually explained as "torch" or "light", or linked to Selene, the moon. Helen of Troy, whose beauty launched a thousand ships, and author and activist Helen Keller are its most famous bearers. A top 10 name in the early 20th century, Helen now sits comfortably among the vintage classics: number 345 in 2000, number 333 in 2005 and number 462 in 2025.