This name is a shapeshifter. Spelled one way, it is French chic (Madeleine); spelled another, it is American modern (Madelyn). However, the classic Madeline spelling offers the perfect middle ground: a vintage revival choice that feels timeless rather than dusty.
Verdict: Madeline is an exceptional choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers parents the “sweet spot” of popularity: it is recognizable and easy to spell, yet it is no longer oversaturated, allowing your daughter to stand out with a name that is as elegant as it is spirited.
Madeline Overview
- Meaning: “of Magdala”, “high tower”
- Gender: Typically female
- Origin: Greek
- Pronunciation: “Mad-eh-line”
- Popularity: Top 100 for girls in the US
- Nicknames: Maddy, Lena, Deline.
- Variations: Madeleine, Madelyn, Magdalena.
- Namesakes: Madeline Kahn, Madeleine Albright, Madeleine L’Engle
What Does Madeline Mean?
At its core, the name Madeline means “woman from Magdala” or “high tower.”
The etymology traces back to the epithet “Magdalene.” In ancient texts, this title was used to distinguish Mary Magdalene from other Marys in the New Testament. Magdala was a thriving fishing village on the coast of the Sea of Galilee. The name of the town itself, Magdala, is derived from the Hebrew word migdal, which translates directly to “tower.”
Therefore, when you name a daughter Madeline, you are gifting her a name that implies strength, height, and a solid foundation. It is a name that looks upward.
Where Does the Name Madeline Come From?
Madeline is the English form of the French name Madeleine, which ultimately derives from the Greek Magdalēnē.
Its journey through history is fascinating. While the root is undeniably Biblical, stemming from Mary Magdalene, one of the most devoted followers of Jesus, the name gained traction in Europe during the Middle Ages. It became particularly fashionable in France and England. The Anglicized spelling “Madeline” eventually separated itself from the French “Madeleine,” becoming a staple in the English-speaking world by the 19th century.
How Popular is the Name Madeline?
Madeline is what I like to call a “modern classic.” It is not a fleeting trend, but rather a stable favorite that has weathered decades of style changes.
According to Social Security Administration data, Madeline has been a Top 100 mainstay for nearly 30 years (1). It enjoyed a meteoric rise in the 1990s, likely fueled by the nostalgia of the Madeline books and media adaptations. While it peaked in 1998, it has not crashed; instead, it has settled into a comfortable rhythm.
In 2025, Madeline is a “Goldilocks” name. It is popular enough that everyone knows it, but it has cooled off just enough that your daughter won’t be one of five Madelines in her kindergarten class. It is far more timeless than the trendy “Madelyn” spelling, which saw a sharper spike and fall.
How Do I Pronounce Madeline?
The beauty of Madeline is in its versatile pronunciation, though this can sometimes lead to confusion.
- English (Classic): MAD-uh-line (The last syllable rhymes with “fine” or “wine”). This is the most common pronunciation for this specific spelling.
- English (Soft): MAD-uh-lin (The last syllable rhymes with “tin” or “sin”). This is often how the character in the children’s book is pronounced in certain adaptations to rhyme with “Genevieve.”
- French: Mad-LEHN (The middle syllable is barely voiced, and the end is a soft “ehn” sound).
Is Madeline a Boy or Girl Name?
Madeline is traditionally and overwhelmingly a feminine name. While surname-names (like Madison or Addison) have crossed gender lines, Madeline’s strong association with historical female figures and literature has kept it firmly in the girls’ camp.
Variations of Madeline
Because this name has traveled through so many languages, it boasts a rich international wardrobe of variations.
- Madeleine: The traditional French spelling. It implies a certain chic elegance.
- Magdalena: The Spanish, German, and Polish variation. It feels heavier, more rugged, and very romantic.
- Madelyn / Madalynn: The modern American phonetic spellings.
- Madelon: A rare French diminutive that feels spunky and unique.
- Malena: A Swedish and Spanish contraction of Magdalena.
- Magali: A Provençal (Southern French) variation.
- Mialani: A Hawaiian interpretation.
Nicknames for Madeline
Madeline is a playground for nicknames. You can go with the obvious choices or select something that gives the name a completely different edge.
The Classics:
- Maddie / Maddy: The universal go-to. Sweet, sporty, and friendly.
- Mads: A cool, effortless shortened version often used by teens.
The Vintage & Rare:
- Della: Pulling from the middle of the name, this stands on its own as a vintage gem.
- Leni: A German-style nickname that sounds very current.
- Lina: Simple, European, and sophisticated.
- Mazzy: A spunky, high-energy option for a wild child.
Names Similar to Madeline
If you love Madeline but want to explore other options with a similar “flavor,” consider these contenders.
The “French & Fancy” Vibe:
- Genevieve: Like Madeline, it is French, three syllables, and offers great nicknames (Evie, Viv).
- Charlotte: Shares that timeless, royal appeal.
- Josephine: A vintage powerhouse with a tomboy nickname (Jo) to match Maddie.
The “Vintage Storybook” Vibe:
- Alice: Simple, literary, and universally recognized.
- Matilda: Quirky and strong, sharing the “M” initial and vintage charm.
- Eloise: Another famous book heroine living in a hotel/plaza, sharing Madeline’s spirited energy.
Middle Names for Madeline
Because Madeline is a three-syllable powerhouse (ending in an ‘n’ sound), the best middle names usually provide a rhythmic contrast.
Short & Sweet
Single-syllable names create a crisp, finished sound when paired with Madeline.
Vintage & Floral
Lean into the Victorian era roots of the name with these botanical or antique choices.
Soft & Vowel-Heavy
Since Madeline has hard consonants (M, D, L, N), a softer middle name can balance it out.
Sibling Names for Madeline
Building a sibset around Madeline is delightful because it plays well with so many styles.
For a Brother
You generally want a name that is classic, established, and masculine without being too rugged.
- Oliver: The perfect match in popularity and literary charm.
- Henry: A royal classic that stands tall next to Madeline.
- Theodore: Shares the “long name, cute nickname” (Teddy) dynamic.
- William: Timeless and reliable.
- Benjamin: Gentle, biblical, and multisyllabic.
For a Sister
Look for names that are feminine but not frilly; names with history and substance.
- Charlotte: These two are often found together on popularity lists for a reason; they are perfect stylistic sisters.
- Amelia: Shares the aviator/pioneer spirit.
- Lillian: A floral classic that sounds beautiful with Madeline.
- Beatrice: A bit quirkier, but matches the vintage energy perfectly.
- Evelyn: Shares the ending sound but has a distinct beginning.
Famous People Named Madeline
The name has been borne by women of substance, wit, and talent.
- Madeleine Albright: The first female United States Secretary of State, known for her intelligence and diplomacy.
- Madeline Kahn: An iconic American actress and comedienne, famous for her roles in Mel Brooks’ films like Clue and Young Frankenstein.
- Madeleine L’Engle: The legendary author of A Wrinkle in Time, inspiring generations of young readers (2).
- Madeleine Vionnet: A revolutionary French fashion designer who introduced the bias cut to the world of haute couture.
- Madeline Zima: An American actress known for her roles as a child star in The Nanny and later in Californication.
Madeline in Pop Culture
- Madeline: The titular character of Ludwig Bemelmans’ 1939 book series. “In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines…” This is the most enduring association with the name.
- Madeline Martha Mackenzie: A fiery, loyal, and complex main character in HBO’s Big Little Lies, played by Reese Witherspoon.
- Madeline Bassett: A recurring character in P.G. Wodehouse’s Jeeves stories, known for her sentimental nature.
- Madeleine Swann: A psychiatrist and bond girl in the James Bond films Spectre and No Time to Die.
FAQs About the Name Madeline
Is Madeline a Biblical Name?
Madeline is not a feminine name used in the bible directly. However, it is a derivative of “Magdalene,” referring to Mary Magdalene. She is one of the most significant female figures in the New Testament, known for her loyalty to Jesus and for being the first to witness the Resurrection. Therefore, the name has a profound spiritual connection.
Is There a Male Version of Madeline?
Do Any Names Share the Same Meaning As Madeline?
A few names share the same “woman from Magdala” meaning as Madeline. Lena, Madel, Mala, Magdala, and Magdalena and their associated variations all share that meaning as well. Variations of Madeline, such as Madeleine, Madilyn, Madelynne, and Madelon also share the same meaning.
What is the Best Spelling: Madeline, Madeleine, or Madelyn?
This depends on the “vibe” you want. Madeline is the classic English spelling and is the most versatile. Madeleine is the French spelling and is considered more sophisticated or “fancy.” Madelyn is the Americanized phonetic spelling and tends to be perceived as more modern and casual.
Why is the Name Madeline Associated With Cookies?
The name is associated with “Madeleines,” which are small, shell-shaped sponge cakes from Commercy and Liverdun, France. They are a staple of French baking. The writer Marcel Proust famously wrote about how the taste of a madeleine dipped in tea involuntarily evoked vivid memories of his childhood, cementing the cookie’s place in literary history.
Is Madeline Considered an Old Lady Name?
What Does the Name Madeline Represent in Numerology?
In numerology, Madeline typically resonates with the number 5. This number represents freedom, curiosity, adaptability, and adventure. This aligns perfectly with the adventurous spirit of the character in the Madeline books.
Is the Name Madeline Popular in Other Countries?
Yes, Madeline (and its variations) is globally loved. The spelling Madeleine is a staple in France and popular in the UK. Magdalena is widely used across Eastern Europe, Germany, and Spanish-speaking countries. In Australia and Canada, Madeline follows similar popularity trends to the United States.
