This post contains affiliate links.
Discover the meaning, origin, and beauty of the name Ilona – a Hungarian choice with timeless appeal.
At a Glance
🔍 Curious how popular a name is?
Check any name's popularity trend since 1880 with our free Baby Name Popularity Checker.
Meaning: light, torch, beautiful
Origin: Hungarian
Gender: Girl
Pronunciation: ee-LOH-nah
Meaning & Origin of Ilona
Ilona is the Hungarian form of Helen, meaning ‘light’ or ‘torch.’ In Hungarian folklore, Ilona was a fairy queen of great beauty. The name has Eastern European elegance with luminous meaning.
The name Ilona carries a sense of light that resonates across cultures. Parents choosing this name are drawn to its hungarian roots and the positive qualities it embodies.
How to Pronounce Ilona
Phonetic: ee-LOH-nah
The name flows naturally and is generally easy for English speakers to pronounce while maintaining its authentic sound.
Is Ilona a Popular Name?
Ilona is a distinctive choice that stands out without being overly unusual. It offers the perfect balance of uniqueness and accessibility – memorable enough to make an impression, yet familiar enough to feel comfortable.
Parents who choose Ilona often appreciate its hungarian heritage and the meaningful qualities it represents.
Names Similar to Ilona
If you love Ilona, you might also consider:
- Names with similar sounds or origins
- Names with related meanings
- Names from the same cultural tradition
Final Thoughts on Ilona
Ilona is a girl name that combines light with cultural depth. Whether you’re drawn to its hungarian roots or simply love how it sounds, Ilona is a choice that will serve your child well throughout their life.



