Madelyn, a charming variant of the classic Madeline, has surged in popularity, becoming a familiar name in classrooms across the country. This English name, meaning "woman from Magdala," blends modern appeal with a touch of vintage charm. The rise of the "-lyn" suffix in names has contributed to Madelyn’s ascent, placing it comfortably among other popular "Mad-" names like Madison, Madeleine, Maddox, and Madden.
Meaning and Origins of Madelyn
The name Madelyn ultimately derives from Magdala, an ancient town on the Sea of Galilee. In the Bible, Mary Magdalene is associated with this town. The name carries a sense of history and strength, despite its delicate sound. It’s a name that evokes both a sweet, youthful image and a sense of maturity and resilience.
While the traditional spelling, Madeline, retains its old-school elegance, Madelyn offers a contemporary twist that many parents find appealing. It’s a flexible name, equally fitting for a little girl with a penchant for tea parties and a grown woman navigating the complexities of life.
Madelyn: A Name with Character
Don’t be fooled by its gentle sound; Madelyn is no pushover. The name possesses a quiet strength, reminiscent of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare. It suggests a determined spirit, someone who embraces fun but is always responsible and on-point.
Madelyn Name Popularity
How popular is the name Madelyn? The Social Security Administration (SSA) data reveals a fascinating trajectory. While the name has roots stretching back to the early 20th century, its climb to the top has been more recent.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 542 | 24 | 0.0068% |
| 1950 | 517 | 207 | 0.0129% |
| 1980 | 1,364 | 45 | 0.0031% |
| 1990 | 730 | 237 | 0.0143% |
| 2000 | 126 | 2,676 | 0.1752% |
| 2010 | 76 | 3,617 | 0.251% |
| 2020 | 67 | 3,441 | 0.2703% |
| 2023 | 58 | 3,636 | 0.2809% |
As the table shows, Madelyn started with a few births in 1910 and has gradually risen in popularity over the decades. The name experienced a significant surge in the late 1990s and early 2000s. In 2023, Madelyn ranked at number 58 with 3,636 births, with 0.2809% of total births.
Madelyn’s Many Spellings and Similar Names
One of the appealing aspects of Madelyn is its versatility in spelling. Parents can choose from a range of variations, including:
- Madelynn
- Madalyn
- Madilyn
- Madeline
- Madlen
- Magdalena
If you like the sound and feel of Madelyn, consider these similar names:
- Adelyn
- Emersyn
- Jocelyn
- Adeline
- Evelyn
- Katelyn
- Marilyn
Diminutives of Madelyn
If you are looking for a shortened version of Madelyn, consider these diminutives:
- Maddie
- Maddy
Sibling Names for Madelyn
If you already have a Madelyn, you might be wondering what names go well with hers. One popular sibling name is Kingston.
In conclusion, Madelyn offers a timeless appeal, blending classic origins with modern trends. Its meaning, "woman from Magdala," provides a connection to history, while its various spellings and similar names offer flexibility for parents. The increasing popularity of Madelyn suggests that this name will remain a favorite for years to come.