Helen
Meaning: Bright, shining, torch
Origin: Greek
Gender: Girl
Rank in Australia: #38
Total births: 10,887
History: Helen peaked in the 1950s-60s in Australia. Helen Reddy sang 'I Am Woman,' which became an anthem of the women's movement worldwide — written and performed by an Australian woman. In Australian history, Helen means the feminist roar heard around the world.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Australia’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (1982) | #84 |
| Babies named Helen in 1982 | 95 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 10,887 |
| Peak year | 1952 (648 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #9 |
| Years in records | 1952–1982 (31 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 23 spots |
Frequently asked about Helen
What does the name Helen mean?
Helen means “Bright, shining, torch” from Greek roots.
What is the origin of the name Helen?
Helen has Greek origin. The traditional meaning is “Bright, shining, torch”.
How popular is Helen in Australia?
Helen ranked #84 in Australia in 1982 — given to 95 babies that year.
When was Helen most popular?
Helen peaked in 1952 with 648 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is Helen a boy or girl name?
Helen is predominantly a girls' name in Australia — over 90% of Helens in registered births are female.
Is the name Helen rising or falling in popularity?
Helen has fallen 23 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Australia — from #61 in 1977 to #84 in 1982.
How long has Helen been recorded in Australia?
Helen appears in birth records in Australia across 31 years — from 1952 through 1982.