Madeline Name Meaning | Origin, History & Popularity

The name Madeline is of French origin and is believed to mean “high tower” or “woman from Magdala.” It is derived from the French name “Madeleine,” which is a variant of the name Magdalene, which means “woman from Magdala,” a town in Palestine. The name is most famously associated with Mary Magdalene, a woman who is said to have been a close follower of Jesus in the New Testament.

One of the most famous people to bear the name Madeline is Madeline Kahn, an American actress, comedian, and singer, known for her roles in films such as “Blazzing Saddles” and “Young Frankenstein.”

In literature, Madeline is also a well-known character. In Ludwig Bemelmans’ “Madeline” children’s book series, the main character’s name is Madeline. In J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye,” the main character Holden Caulfield mentions a girl named Madeline, who he met in a museum.

As a given name, Madeline has been consistently popular in various cultures and languages throughout history. It reached its peak of popularity in the US and Canada around 1920s and 1930s. The name has a classic and timeless feel, and it is a versatile and adaptable name that can be used for both males and females.

The name Madeline is associated with elegance, refinement, and intelligence. It is a name that evokes feelings of class and sophistication. Many parents choose the name Madeline for their child because it has a classic and feminine feel to it, and it is a name that can be used for both boys and girls.