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Madeline

♀ Girl

Pronounced MAD-uh-lin /ˈmæd.ə.lɪn/High

Meaning: Woman from Magdala; high tower — from the Hebrew place name Migdal (tower), via Greek Magdalene and French MadeleineHigh

In 30 seconds: A French form of Magdalene meaning 'woman from Magdala (the high tower),' Madeline blends Biblical depth with Parisian charm, and is forever associated with Ludwig Bemelmans' beloved children's book heroine.
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Origin HighHebrew, French
MeaningWoman from Magdala; high tower — from the Hebrew place name Migdal (tower), via Greek Magdalene and French Madeleine
Peak year1998
Total births (all-time)≈ 184,547

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 199818802017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Madeline is an English and French form of Magdalene, a surname meaning 'from Magdala,' a town on the Sea of Galilee. The place name means 'high tower' in Hebrew. Mary Magdalene is one of the most prominent women in the New Testament.

The French form Madeleine became anglicized as Madeline. The name was boosted enormously by Bemelmans' children's books beginning in 1939 and has remained a popular American girls' name.

Did you know? Ludwig Bemelmans' Madeline (1939), set in Paris, remains one of the best-selling children's picture books of all time — 'In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines...'

Variations

MadeleineMadeleneMagdaleneMadelyn

Nicknames

MaddieMaddyLinny

Famous Bearers

  • ★Mary Magdalene (1st century AD)
    Biblical figure, the first person said to have seen the risen Christ, one of the most important women in the New Testament.

If you like Madeline…

Adeline— three-syllable French classic with the same vintage charm and Maddie nickname
Caroline— three-syllable French/Latin classic with the same noble literary history
Josephine— long French classic with the same romantic multi-syllable elegance
Eleanor— vintage three-syllable classic with the same French-tinged grace

Frequently Asked

What does the name Madeline mean?

Madeline comes from Magdalene, meaning 'woman from Magdala,' a town whose Hebrew name means 'high tower.'

How do you pronounce Madeline?

It is said MAD-uh-lin /ˈmæd.ə.lɪn/ — three syllables, stress on the first.

Is Madeline a boy or girl name?

Madeline is used exclusively as a girl's name.

How popular is Madeline?

Madeline has been a consistent U.S. top-100 girls' name, boosted by the beloved children's book character.