Elaine is a feminine given name, an old french form of the name helen used for a character in the 15th century arthurian romance le morte dรขโ‚ฌโ„ขarthur by thomas malory. The name elaine is of french origin and is derived from the greek name helenรค, meaning torch or bright, shining light. it is often associated with qualities such as beauty, grace, and intelligence. View elaine t.