Selena

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/səˈliː.nə/

Selena: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon". It derives from the Greek word "Selḗnē".

Selena has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Selena

Quick facts about Selena
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Selḗnē

Other Scripts

Russian (Селена)

How to Pronounce Selena

Selena is pronounced /səˈliː.nə/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Sel-en-a
  2. Say it like: "SEL-EN-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Selena enjoys international appeal, used in 10 different linguistic and cultural contexts including russian, spanish, italian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

russianspanishitaliannorwegianicelandiccroatianswedishdanishfinnishgerman
Name Relationships

Selena is a variant form of Selene, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selena
What does the name Selena mean?
Selena means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”". The name comes from Selḗnē. In its original form, the name derives from Selḗnē (Σελήνη). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Selena for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Selena's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (TITANS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Selena?
Selena is a greek name. The name traces back to Selḗnē. The original form Selḗnē (Σελήνη) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Selena is written as Russian (Селена). From its greek roots, Selena spread to become common in russian, spanish, italian, norwegian and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Selena developed as a form of Selene, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Selena a boy or girl name?
Selena is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Selena has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Selena?
Selena is pronounced "/səˈliː.nə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Russian (Селена), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Selena is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in russian, spanish, italian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Selena can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Selḗnē influences how Selena sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Selena?
Selena is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Selena offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Selena's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Selena holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Selena?
Selena is a form of Selene. Over time, Selene developed into several variations, with Selena emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In greek tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Selena might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In russian and spanish, Selena may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Selena commonly used?
Selena spans multiple cultures, including russian, spanish, italian, and 7 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Selena found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Selena, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Selena into their naming traditions. A child named Selena will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Selena is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Selena?
Selena carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (TITANS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Selḗnē,” meaning “titan of the moon,” likely connected to the word sélas (σέλας), meaning “brightness,” probably related to the brightness of the full moon. In Greek mythology, Selene was an archaic lunar deity and the daughter of Hyperion and Theia, sister of Helios and Eos, mother of the Menae. Her equivalent in ancient Roman religion and myth is “Luna,” Latin for “moon.”" reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Selena originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Selena sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Selena often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In russian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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