Selena

What does Selena mean?

Selena traces back to the Greek name associated with the moon. It evokes the soft, luminous quality of moonlight and, by extension, ideas of calm, mystery and gentle beauty.

The name feels graceful and slightly exotic without being hard to wear. It strikes a balance between romantic and modern, suggesting someone who is poetic or quietly luminous. In usage it sits comfortably alongside names such as Selene and Celeste, sharing a celestial, elegant tone.

Historical Context

The name Selena ultimately comes from the ancient Greek word for the moon and is closely related to the goddess name Selene. In classical myth, that divine figure represented the moon itself, a luminous presence that crossed the night sky. Over centuries the name evolved in form and usage, appearing in various spellings and adapting to local languages.

In later European traditions the name appeared in forms such as Selene and Selina, and it entered vernacular use in different countries at different times. In the modern era Selena has enjoyed steady use in English and other languages, admired for its lyrical sound and celestial meaning. The name’s popularity has been influenced by cultural figures and by a broader contemporary interest in nature and cosmic-inspired names, but its appeal rests on a simple, timeless image rather than a single trend.

Popularity of Selena over time

In 2025, Selena was given to 134 girls in the UK and 1,170 girls in the US. Selena has risen sharply over the last 20 years, and is now a well-used girls' name especially in the US.

What do parents think of Selena?