Elli

Elli has several distinct origins. As a Greek name, it is a short form of Eleni, the Greek form of Helen, itself derived from the Greek root meaning torch or bright one. In German and Finnish use, Elli functions as a familiar form of names beginning with El-, particularly Elisabeth, which traces back to the Hebrew name Elisheba meaning my God is an oath. In Norse mythology, Elli is the personification of old age, famously depicted in the Prose Edda as the old woman who wrestles the god Thor to one knee, her name likely connected to an Old Norse word for age or elderliness. Related forms include Ellie, Elly, and Ella.