Heleentje

Heleentje is a Dutch diminutive form of Helene, which derives from the ancient Greek Helene, likely rooted in the word helene meaning torch or bright light, though some scholars connect it to selene, the Greek word for moon. The name gained widespread use across Europe largely through the legend of Helen of Troy and later through the veneration of Saint Helena, mother of the Roman emperor Constantine the Great. The diminutive suffix tje is characteristic of Dutch pet-name formation, giving the name an affectionate, familiar quality. Related forms include Helena, Helen, Elena, and Elaine.