Elrene is a unique and distinctive name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "Helene," which means "torch" or "corposant," a phenomenon where a luminous column of light extends outward from the top of a thundercloud. This name has been associated with several historical figures, most notably Helen of Troy, whose abduction sparked the Trojan War according to Homer's epic poem "The Iliad." However, unlike its more common counterpart, Elrene is not widely used and therefore retains an air of rarity and exclusivity. Despite its lack of popularity, this name has a rich history and an intriguing meaning that sets it apart from other names of Greek origin.
The name Elrene has had a consistent but limited presence in the United States over the years, with a total of 26 babies being given this name since 1921. The most popular year for the name was 1940, when it was given to 6 newborns. However, it has also been quite steady, with at least 5 births each in the years 1921, 1925, 1932, and 1948. Despite its rarity compared to more popular names, Elrene has maintained a consistent presence over time, with no significant decline or increase in popularity since 1921.