Jacqueline - Name Meaning, Origin and History

The name Jacqueline is of French origin, derived from the male name Jacques, which itself comes from the Latin Jacobus, meaning "supplanter" or "holder of the heel." This name traces back to the Hebrew name Yaakov, famously borne by the biblical patriarch Jacob. Historically, Jacqueline has been used as a feminine form of Jacques since the Middle Ages in France. Notable bearers include Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, whose elegance and style as First Lady of the United States left a lasting impact on American culture. The name has also been popular in literature and film, with characters like Jacqueline "Jackie" Brown from Quentin Tarantino's movie. Variants of Jacqueline, such as Jaclyn and Jackie, are commonly used in English-speaking countries. While primarily a female name, it has occasionally been used for males in some cultures. In terms of popularity, Jacqueline saw a peak in the mid-20th century in the United States but has since declined. Regionally, it remains more common in French-speaking areas. Contemporary relevance includes its use in various forms of media and as a symbol of sophistication. Sibling names might include other French-inspired names like Sophie or Pierre. Individuals named Jacqueline are often described as charismatic, intelligent, and ambitious.