Lene

Lene is a Scandinavian and German short form of Helene, itself derived from the ancient Greek Helene, whose root is debated but often connected to the Greek word for torch or light, or alternatively linked to the name of the Hellenes, the Greek people. The name gained widespread use in Denmark, Norway, and Germany as an independent given name rather than merely a pet form. Its ultimate source, the mythological Helen of Troy, made the root name one of the most enduring in European history. Related forms include Lena, Helena, and Elena.