Elly

Elly is a familiar form used for several longer names, including Eleanor, Elizabeth, Ellen, and Eliana. It can also stand independently as a given name. Because those longer names have different histories, Elly does not have one universal translation such as “light” or “fairy maiden” that applies to every bearer.

Ellie is the closest spelling comparison, while the choice of a full form can preserve a particular family connection. An Elly named for Elizabeth has a different linguistic background from one named for Eleanor, even if the everyday sound is identical. Keeping that distinction clear allows the short name to retain its personal story without requiring every Elly to use a formal expansion.