Madeline, a name synonymous with vintage charm and literary grace, has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity, particularly since the 1990s. Parents are captivated by its posh English roots and sophisticated appeal. This article delves into the meaning, origin, popularity, and variations of the name Madeline.
Madeline Name Meaning
The name Madeline is of Hebrew origin, derived from Magdala, a town on the Sea of Galilee. The traditional meaning is "woman from Magdala." It’s a classic name imbued with a sense of history and elegance.
You might immediately associate the name with the beloved children’s book series, "Madeline," chronicling the adventures of a spirited young girl in a French boarding school. This association adds a touch of spunk and adventure to the name, perfect for a girl ready to explore the world. The nickname Maddie is a popular and adorable choice, while Dell and Della offer equally precious alternatives. Madeline is a delicate and sweet name suitable for a child, yet mature enough to transition seamlessly into adulthood. Notable figures like actresses Madeline Zima and Madeline Kahn, along with suffragist Madeline McDowell Breckinridge, exemplify the name’s enduring appeal.
The versatility of Madeline is further enhanced by its two accepted pronunciations. While the "-lyn" ending is more prevalent, the "-line" pronunciation offers a unique and equally beautiful alternative. Similar to Coraline and Adeline, Madeline possesses a rich European feel, adding an extra touch of fashion and wonder.
Madeline Name Popularity
How popular is the name Madeline? Data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides insights into its historical usage.
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Peak Popularity: The name reached its peak popularity in 1998, ranking #50 with 5,865 births and a percentage of 0.3919%.
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Consistent Presence: Madeline has consistently ranked within the top 100 names for girls in the United States since the early 1990s, indicating its enduring appeal.
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Historical Trends: The name experienced a notable rise in popularity starting in the 1980s, climbing from a rank of 529 in 1985 to 79 in 1995. This surge coincided with renewed interest in classic and vintage names.
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Recent Trends: While remaining popular, Madeline has seen slight fluctuations in its ranking in recent years. In 2023, it ranked 94th with 2,722 births, representing 0.2103% of female births.
Historical Popularity Data (Selected Years):
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 151 | 508 | 0.1443% |
| 1950 | 283 | 720 | 0.0447% |
| 1980 | 728 | 177 | 0.0121% |
| 1990 | 197 | 1,473 | 0.0889% |
| 2000 | 56 | 5,362 | 0.351% |
| 2010 | 77 | 3,602 | 0.25% |
| 2020 | 95 | 2,687 | 0.2111% |
| 2023 | 94 | 2,722 | 0.2103% |
Alternatives and Variations of Madeline
If you appreciate the charm of Madeline, consider these similar names:
Diminutives:
- Lena: Woman from Magdala (Hebrew)
- Lina: Palm tree (Latin)
- Lynn: Lake, waterfall, or pool (Spanish)
- Maddie: Woman from Magdala, maiden (Hebrew)
- Madge: A pearl (Greek)
Variants:
- Madalyn
- Madeline
- Madeleine
- Magdalena
- Magdalene
Sound-Alike Names:
- Adeline
- Madison
- Manon
- Migdalia
Similar Names:
- Camilla
- Caroline
- Clara
- Coraline
- Elizabeth
- Grace
- Hannah
- Isabelle
- Katherine
- Lillian
The enduring popularity of Madeline speaks to its timeless appeal and the qualities it embodies: elegance, spirit, and a touch of literary magic. Whether you prefer the classic Madeline or one of its charming variations, this name is sure to make a lasting impression.