Ilona is a female given name that has roots in various cultures, including Hungarian and Slavic. It is often associated with the meaning "light" or "torch," symbolizing brightness and illumination. The name has gained popularity in different countries and can be found in various forms, such as Ilona in Hungary and Ileana in Romania. People named Ilona may be known for their creativity and strong personalities. The name has been borne by several notable figures, including Ilona Staller, an Italian actress and singer, and Ilona Andrews, a popular author duo known for their urban fantasy novels.