name
ellen
EHL-uhn
name
1
A female given name derived from the Ancient Greek name Helen.
"Her grandmother was named Ellen after a favourite aunt."
noun
1
An archaic word for courage, strength, or zeal.
"Old poetry sometimes praised a warrior's ellen in battle."
How to Use Ellen
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMainly known today as a female first name; historically also meant "courage" or "strength."
Word Forms
Ellens plural
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Her grandmother was named _____ after a favourite aunt.
Etymology
The given name comes from Greek Helen; the older noun sense is from Old English ellen, "zeal, strength, courage," a word that has fallen out of everyday use.