Madeline - Name Meaning, Origin and History


Name:
Madeline
Pronunciation:
/ˈmædəlɪn/
Gender:
Female
Origin:
Hebrew
Religion:
Christian
Meaning:
Woman from Magdala, high tower
Variations:
Madeleine; Madelyn; Madalyn; Madelaine; Madoline; Madlyn; Madalynn; Madelynn; Madilyn; Madilynn
Madeline is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the name Magdalene, which means "woman from Magdala," a town on the Sea of Galilee. Historically, the name is most famously associated with Mary Magdalene, a significant figure in Christianity known for her devotion to Jesus Christ. The name has been used in various forms across different cultures and languages, reflecting its widespread appeal. In English-speaking countries, Madeline has been a popular choice for girls, often seen as a classic and elegant name. Variants like Madeleine, Madelyn, and Madalyn are common, showing the name's adaptability. The name's usage has been predominantly female, though some unisex usage can be found historically. In terms of popularity, Madeline saw a peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s in the United States, influenced by cultural references such as the children's book "Madeline" by Ludwig Bemelmans. Regionally, the name is popular in English-speaking countries, France, and other parts of Europe. Today, Madeline remains a favored name, often chosen for its timeless charm and literary associations. Sibling names might include Elizabeth, Sophia, or William. People named Madeline are often described as creative, compassionate, and strong-willed.

Popularity of The Name Madeline

Madeline's popularity peaked in the late 1990s and early 2000s in the United States, influenced by cultural references. It remains popular in English-speaking countries, France, and parts of Europe.

Famous People Named Madeline

Madeline Albright
Former U.S. Secretary of State
Madeline Kahn
Actress known for her comedic roles
Madeline Carroll
Actress known for her role in "I Am Number Four

Interesting Facts About the Name Madeline

Most common surname :
Smith, Johnson, Williams
Most common spouse name :
John, Michael, David
Most common child name :
Emma, Olivia, Liam
Peak birth year :
2001
Characteristics :
Creative, compassionate, strongwilled
Professional orientation :
Often found in creative fields, Education: and healthcare
Historical significance :
Associated with Mary Magdalene, a key figure in Christianity
Pop culture significance :
Influenced by the children's book "Madeline" by Ludwig Bemelmans
Linguistic origin :
Derived from the Hebrew name Magdalene, meaning "woman from Magdala

Explore Your Genealogy

Other names starting with M

Explore other names starting with M to help you discover related genealogy records.

Explore other names starting with M to help you discover related genealogy records.

Explore first names - their meanings, origins, and interesting facts

Continue to explore other first names and their meanings, origins, and interesting facts

Continue to explore other first names and their meanings, origins, and interesting facts

Other family names that are common with Madeline

Discover common family names associated with the first name Madeline to help you find related genealogy records.

Family Name Popularity
Heath 0.69%
Smith 0.59%
McKenna 0.35%
Johnson 0.3%
Brown 0.3%
Clark 0.3%
Brooks 0.25%
Hammer 0.25%
Howard 0.25%
Hanson 0.25%
Murphy 0.25%
Quinn 0.25%
Wilson 0.25%
Williams 0.2%
Thomas 0.2%
Rousseau 0.2%
Stevens 0.2%
Sullivan 0.2%
Reid 0.2%
Ouellette 0.2%

Discover common family names associated with the first name Madeline to help you find related genealogy records.

Family Name Popularity
Heath 0.69%
Smith 0.59%
McKenna 0.35%
Johnson 0.3%
Brown 0.3%
Clark 0.3%
Brooks 0.25%
Hammer 0.25%
Howard 0.25%
Hanson 0.25%
Murphy 0.25%
Quinn 0.25%
Wilson 0.25%
Williams 0.2%
Thomas 0.2%
Rousseau 0.2%
Stevens 0.2%
Sullivan 0.2%
Reid 0.2%
Ouellette 0.2%

Updated: 



Copyright©2026

Last update: 2025-05-20

YourFolks.com uses cookies for content personalization purposes in its various services. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. Get more
YourFolks.com uses cookies to help you. Get more