Leni

Often used as a short form for longer names like Helene/Helena in German usage.

Leni is a feminine given name used in German-speaking contexts and increasingly seen more broadly. It has a compact, friendly shape and is often chosen as a standalone name even when it originated as a familiar short form. In naming references, Leni is commonly explained as a German diminutive or short form, especially for Helene/Helena and similar longer forms. Because it functions as a short form, its deeper etymology is usually inherited from the longer source name rather than being a separate root of its own. Pronunciation in English is typically LEN-ee, and in German you’ll often hear a very similar two-syllable pattern. A practical tip is that Leni is short enough to be easy on forms and email addresses, while still having room for nicknames like Len if you want them.

Etymology: Commonly treated as a German diminutive or short form, especially of Helene/Helena and related forms; the deeper etymology depends on the longer source name.