Holding steady.
Popularity of Malene since 1919
Babies named Malene per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 5 |
| 1920s | 11 |
| 1930s | 23 |
| 1940s | 5 |
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 56 |
| 1980s | 22 |
| 1990s | 20 |
| 2000s | 12 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Malene, a Danish variant of Magdalene, has a gentle yet spirited sound and has seen steady but modest use in the United States since 1919. Its peak year was 1977, when it was given to 8 baby girls, and it remains a rare choice, with no rank in recent years. The name is closely tied to Scandinavian heritage, where it has been a consistent presence. Parents seeking a melodic yet uncommon name with biblical roots may find Malene appealing for its classic yet fresh feel.
Malene is a Danish and Norwegian form of Magdalene, which originates from the biblical place name Magdala, a village on the Sea of Galilee. The name became associated with Mary Magdalene, and its use spread across Europe. In Scandinavia, Malene has been used since the 17th century, often as a diminutive of Magdalene.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Malle, Lene, Mala
Sibling names for Malene
Names that share Malene's style, for a brother or sister.
