I recall strongly disliking Eleanor, but now I think it's gorgeous. I also remember having an unusual fondness for Ariel (feminine), which now sounds irritating and only good on boys.
I remember hating Eleanor when I was small and my sister was given it as a middle name, because toddler me thought sounded like a boy's name. Now I am quite fond of Eleanor, though my sister isn't, but I'm sure she'll come around!