Madison, a name synonymous with style and approachability, entered the baby name scene in the 1980s, rapidly gaining popularity in the following decade. Evoking the fashionable streets of New York City while retaining a relatable, girl-next-door charm, Madison’s appeal lies in its surname origin and subtle unisex undertones.
The Meaning of Madison
Madison is of English origin, deriving from a surname meaning "son of Maud" or "son of the mighty warrior." The name Maud, in turn, has Germanic roots, signifying "powerful in battle." This heritage lends Madison a sense of strength and leadership.
Presidential Connections and Modern Appeal
Madison shares a characteristic with other popular surname names like Reagan and Kennedy: a connection to American presidents. However, it sets itself apart with the endearing nickname "Maddie," a familiar option also associated with the classic Madeline and the contemporary Madelyn. The name’s easy spelling and pronunciation contribute to its broad appeal. For those seeking a unique touch, variations like Maddison, Madisen, Madisson, Madisyn, and Madyson offer personalized alternatives.
A Natural Leader
A child named Madison is often perceived as a natural leader, influenced by the name’s stately roots. She’s likely to be confident, articulate, and unafraid to champion her beliefs, whether advocating for a cause or pursuing her passions with enthusiasm. This charisma can pave the way for success in various endeavors.
Popularity Trends
The Social Security Administration (SSA) data reveals the trajectory of Madison’s popularity:
- Early Years: Before the 1980s, Madison was rarely used as a first name.
- 1984: The name first appears in the SSA data, ranked at 2,873 with only 6 births.
- Mid-1990s: The name experienced a meteoric rise. By 1995, it reached rank 29 with 9,774 births.
- Peak Popularity (1997-2007): Madison consistently ranked within the top 10 names, achieving its highest rank of #2 in 2001 and 2002. The number of births during this period was around 20,000 annually.
- 2000: The name was ranked #3 with 19,967 births.
- 2001: The name was ranked #2 with 22,164 births.
- 2002: The name was ranked #2 with 21,773 births.
- Recent Years: While still popular, Madison has experienced a gradual decline in rank, settling at rank 37 in 2023 with 5,174 births.
Madison’s Popularity (US Data)
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1983 | – | 0 | 0% |
| 1984 | 2,873 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1985 | 623 | 251 | 0.0165% |
| 1990 | 204 | 1,386 | 0.0836% |
| 1995 | 29 | 9,774 | 0.6485% |
| 2000 | 3 | 19,967 | 1.3071% |
| 2001 | 2 | 22,164 | 1.471% |
| 2002 | 2 | 21,773 | 1.4529% |
| 2007 | 5 | 17,958 | 1.1382% |
| 2012 | 9 | 11,392 | 0.7994% |
| 2017 | 17 | 7,847 | 0.5622% |
| 2022 | 34 | 5,479 | 0.4153% |
| 2023 | 37 | 5,174 | 0.3998% |
Names Similar to Madison
If you appreciate the style and sound of Madison, consider these alternatives:
- Diminutives: Maddie, Maddy, Madi
- Variants: Maddison, Madisen, Madisson, Madisyn, Madyson
- Sound-Alikes: Addison, Madeleine, Madeline
- Similar Names: Avery, Brielle, Brooklyn, Harper, Kennedy, Mackenzie, Piper, Sadie, Savannah, Skylar
Sibling Names
Parents who chose the name Madison for their daughters also often selected these names for their other children: Natalie, Mason, Adam, River, Fielding, Ireland, Penn, Sofia, Samuel, Dean, Magnolia, Andrew, and Bailey.
In conclusion, Madison is a name with a rich history, strong meaning, and enduring appeal. Its blend of fashion, approachability, and leadership qualities makes it a timeless choice for parents seeking a name that is both stylish and meaningful.