Girl · 58th of 35,406
Madeline
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
204,520
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1998
Peak Popularity Year
5,869
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Madeline stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
Madeline is a name of French origin derived from the Hebrew Magdalene, meaning 'of Magdala' or 'high tower.' It evolved through various languages including Latin and Middle English. The name is popular today and is seen as elegant and timeless, although it has no direct biblical relevance. The name's popularity surged in the 19th century, influenced by literature and notable figures.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈmæd.ə.lɪn/
Origin
French
Etymology
Madeline is derived from the Hebrew name Magdalene, meaning 'of Magdala.' The name Magdala refers to a region in ancient Israel.
Meaning
high tower
Language Evolution
Magdalena (Latin), Madgalene (Middle English), Madeleine (French)
Historical Usage
Madeline gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly due to the influence of literature and art, including the works of authors such as Henry James.
Variants & Derivatives
Madeleine, Maddie, Maddy
Modern Popularity & Image
Madeline is viewed as a classic yet modern name, often associated with sophistication and charm. It remains a popular choice for girls in various cultures.
Famous People
Madeline Albright, Madeline Kahn, Madeline Brewer
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Declining
25-Year Trend:
Gradually Declining
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 5,869 peak births in 1998
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in Vermont
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 13 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 17 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 13 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 5669th of 7545 | 20 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 4278th of 6773 | 45 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 6024th of 7552 | 16 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 8179th of 16616 | 55 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 9244th of 24088 | 99 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 20190th of 23106 | 10 |
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 142nd of 9107 | 29,857 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 203rd of 9204 | 16,814 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 343rd of 12526 | 12,770 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 571st of 19264 | 4,984 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 184th of 27321 | 26,476 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 58th of 35406 | 74,228 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 93rd of 30306 | 36,061 |