A 1910s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Madalene since 1890
Babies named Madalene per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 47 |
| 1900s | 88 |
| 1910s | 285 |
| 1920s | 292 |
| 1930s | 122 |
| 1940s | 120 |
| 1950s | 81 |
| 1960s | 31 |
| 1970s | 33 |
| 1980s | 27 |
| 1990s | 95 |
| 2000s | 122 |
| 2010s | 63 |
| 2020s | 20 |
Meaning & origin
Madalene is a vintage spelling variant of Madeleine that has never broken into widespread use. First recorded in 1890, it reached its peak rank of 10,917 in 1919, when it was given to about 1 in 200,908 girls that year. After declining for decades, the name has been rising again since 2022, part of a revival of 1910s-era names. It remains extremely uncommon, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a classic sound with a familiar feel. Its top states are not documented due to its rarity.
Madalene is a spelling variant of Madeline or Madeleine, which derive from the Hebrew name Magdalene, referring to Mary Magdalene, meaning 'from Magdala', a village on the Sea of Galilee. The name became popular in English-speaking countries in the 19th century, often influenced by French forms. This particular spelling emerged in the late 19th century and saw modest use, peaking in the 1910s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Maddie, Maddy, Lena, Della
Sibling names for Madalene
Names that share Madalene's style, for a brother or sister.
