Holding steady.
Popularity of Magdelene since 1913
Babies named Magdelene per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 27 |
| 1920s | 73 |
| 1930s | 15 |
| 1940s | 16 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 10 |
| 2000s | 6 |
| 2010s | 6 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
The name Magdelene peaked in use in 1922, with its highest recorded frequency of births occurring during the 1920s, a decade when many traditional biblical names were favored. However, its usage has remained stable at low levels since then. While rank and one-in-N figures are not available for recent years, the name has been in consistent but rare use since as early as 1913, reflecting its status as an uncommon but enduring choice, often associated with its religious heritage.
Magdelene is a variant of Magdalene, derived from the Greek Magdalēnē, meaning 'woman from Magdala.' Magdala was a village on the Sea of Galilee, and the name historically refers to Mary Magdalene, a follower of Jesus. The name entered English usage after the Protestant Reformation, with this particular spelling variant appearing occasionally in English-speaking countries.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Maggie, Maddy, Lena, Magda
Sibling names for Magdelene
Names that share Magdelene's style, for a brother or sister.
