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 d'arthur by thomas malory. Elaine is a girl's name of french and scottish origin, meaning bright, shining light. the name elaine is of old french origin and is derived from the provençal name alaunius, which itself comes from the. The name elaine is of french origin and is derived from the greek name helenē, meaning torch or bright, shining light. it is often associated with qualities such as beauty, grace, and intelligence.