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Olena is a beautiful name. Odessa is a city.

Odessa is GP of mine. She sounds like a kindly Spanish or Turkish governess.

Don't like either, prefer Odette

Odessa, it sounds like a caring mother.

I like both about the same. Unique without being too out there.

Odessa

Olena is very pretty. I think of Odessa as a placename only. I know it’s been used for people for some time now, but at this point in time naming a kid Odessa feels a bit like a political statement. That’s a neutral factor for me, but I thought I’d mention it just in case it affects the way you feel about it.

My aunt's name was Olena Grace Lamar, born in 1925, so my opinion is swayed by that. Odessa sounds more exotic to me. I wonder if it will gain in popularity as an alternative to Olivia and because the city of Odessa has been in the news. It hasn't been in the US top 1000 since the 19402-50s. Olena hasn't ever been in the top 1000. It sounds sweeter to me. They definitely have different vibes despite similar sounds. Love them both.

I like Odessa better, it sounds strong and reminds me of the mythological Greek king Odysseus. Olena sounds calm and sweet to me, but I prefer Helena.

This message was edited 3/23/2022, 7:21 AM