Madeline

MAD-uh-lin

A softened form of Magdalene, linked to Mary Magdalene and the place name Magdala.

Meaning

Madeline is a French form of Magdalene, ultimately from Hebrew Magdala, a place name meaning “tower.” The name passed through Christian tradition by way of Mary Magdalene, so its etymological sense is tied to “of Magdala” rather than a separate standalone meaning. The excerpts also note related forms such as Madeleine, Madelon, Maddalena, and Madelena.

Origin

Fun fact

Older English forms mentioned in the excerpts include Maudlin and Maum.

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Confidence: mixed. Sources: History of Christian Names, Praenomina; or, the etymology of the principal Christian names of Great Britain and Ireland, Girls' Names and Name-Day and Birthday Book.

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