Madeline Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Madeline
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MADELINE. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Madeline
Gender
Female
Origin
French
Lucky Number
9
Meaning of the Name
Madeline is a French-derived feminine name meaning 'woman from Magdala.' It carries elegant connotations of sophistication and strength, popularized through literature and maintaining timeless appeal.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mars
Positive Nature
Generous, passionate, energetic, and humanitarian.
Negative Traits
Impulsive, impatient, moody, and can be overly emotional.
Lucky Colours
Red, maroon, scarlet.
Lucky Days
Tuesday.
Lucky Stones
Red coral, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
1, 2, 3, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Military, sports, philanthropy, leadership roles.
What People Like About You
Courage, energy, leadership, generosity.
Famous People Named Madeline
Madeline Albright
Diplomat and Politician
First female United States Secretary of State
Madeline Kahn
Actress and Comedian
Academy Award-nominated actress known for comedic roles in classic films
Madeline Miller
Author
Award-winning author of mythological retellings 'The Song of Achilles' and 'Circe'
Madeline Stuart
Fashion Model
Groundbreaking model with Down syndrome who revolutionized fashion inclusion
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
The most prominent modern cultural influence comes from Ludwig Bemelmans' beloved children's book series beginning in 1939, which features a brave young French girl named Madeline living in a Parisian boarding school. The character's adventures, captured in Bemelmans' distinctive illustrations and rhyming verse, have made Madeline an icon of childhood courage and curiosity. The books and their various adaptations have cemented the name's association with Parisian elegance, independence, and the spirit of adventure. This literary legacy has ensured that Madeline remains not just a name but a cultural touchstone representing resilience, friendship, and the joy of discovery across generations.
Extended Personality Analysis
Women named Madeline are often characterized by a distinctive blend of grace and determination that makes them both approachable and formidable. They typically possess a natural elegance that isn't put-on but rather emerges from their thoughtful approach to life and relationships. Madelines are frequently described as having sharp intellects combined with emotional intelligence, allowing them to navigate complex social situations with apparent ease. There's often a creative streak—whether in artistic pursuits, problem-solving, or communication—that makes them interesting conversationalists and innovative thinkers.
This name suggests someone who balances traditional values with modern independence. Madelines are often perceived as reliable and loyal friends who maintain deep connections while pursuing their own ambitious goals. The literary association with the brave young Madeline contributes to expectations of courage and resilience—these are women who face challenges head-on but with a characteristic poise that prevents them from appearing aggressive. They tend to be culturally aware, often with interests in literature, arts, or travel, reflecting the name's European origins. At their core, Madelines are frequently seen as women of substance—people who combine inner strength with outward grace, making them both respected and beloved in their personal and professional circles.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Madeline maintains steady popularity as a classic choice that feels both timeless and current. The name has shown remarkable staying power in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States where it consistently ranks within the top 200 girls' names. Its peak popularity occurred in the late 1990s and early 2000s, coinciding with the successful film and television adaptations of the Madeline books. While its usage has slightly declined from those heights, it remains a favored option for parents seeking a name that offers both sophistication and friendly accessibility. The spelling 'Madeline' dominates in American English, while 'Madeleine' remains preferred in British contexts and among parents wanting to emphasize the French connection. The name's flexibility is one of its strengths—it works equally well for children and adults, and offers multiple nickname options including Maddie, Maddy, and Lena that allow for personalization. This versatility, combined with its elegant sound and positive associations, ensures that Madeline continues to be a relevant and appealing choice in modern naming landscapes.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Madeline represents a fascinating convergence of spiritual depth and worldly sophistication. The name's root connection to Mary Magdalene carries profound symbolic weight—representing transformation, devotion, and the complex interplay between spiritual and earthly love. In Christian symbolism, Magdalene figures often embody the concept of redemption through faith and the integration of contemplation with active service. The French cultural layers add symbolic dimensions of artistic sensibility, culinary pleasure, and European elegance—the madeleine pastry itself becoming a powerful symbol of memory and sensory experience through Proust's famous literary reference. The brave literary character Madeline contributes symbolic meanings of courage, curiosity, and the power of friendship to overcome adversity. Collectively, these associations make Madeline a name rich with symbolic potential—it suggests a journey of self-discovery, the blending of tradition and innovation, and the ability to find beauty and meaning in both simple pleasures and profound experiences. It represents the ideal of living with both grace and purpose, of maintaining one's core values while embracing growth and change.