Helaine is a unique and distinctive feminine given name that is of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is derived from the Hebrew word "chayyah," which translates to "life." Therefore, Helaine can be interpreted as a name that signifies life or living.
The name Helaine has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. In the Old Testament of the Bible, there was a woman named Helelah who was the daughter of Caleb and wife of Uriah. She is often referred to as "the mother of Bethlehem" because she gave birth to Haran, who eventually became the father of the city's founder. While it is uncertain whether Helaine is directly connected to this biblical figure, it is possible that the name evolved from variations of Helelah over time.
Helaine has also been associated with notable figures throughout history. For example, Helaine "Sunny" von Bülow was a prominent socialite and fashion icon during the 1970s and 1980s, known for her stylish appearances at high society events. Additionally, Helaine Ann Lerner is an American playwright who gained recognition for her works such as "Betrayal" and "The Diary of Anne Frank."
In modern times, Helaine has become less common than it was during the mid-20th century but remains a unique and elegant choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter. Its Hebrew origins give it a strong cultural heritage, while its meaning adds depth and significance to the name. Overall, Helaine is a beautiful and meaningful name that stands out among more common feminine names.
The name Helaine has seen a varied trend in popularity over the past century in the United States, with peaks and valleys that reflect broader societal trends and tastes.
In the early 20th century, Helaine was a relatively popular name, with between five to twenty-six births per year from 1909 to 1936. The highest number of births during this period occurred in 1932, with 26 babies named Helaine. However, the name's popularity began to decline in the late 1930s and continued to do so throughout the next few decades.
From 1947 to 1958, the number of births per year for the name Helaine ranged from 13 to 63, with a peak in 1947. After this point, however, the popularity of the name began to drop off significantly, and it became increasingly rare.
Between 1959 and 2021, there were only 26 years where more than five babies were named Helaine in any given year. The last peak occurred in 1964, with 57 births. Since then, the name has been very uncommon, with fewer than ten births per year most of the time.
Overall, a total of 1,794 babies have been named Helaine in the United States since 1909. While the name was once relatively popular, it has become increasingly rare over time. This could be due to shifting cultural trends or simply the introduction of new names that parents prefer. Despite its decline in popularity, however, the name Helaine remains a distinctive and unique choice for baby girls.