Madeleine (given name)


Madeleine or Madeline has biblical origins. The name Magdalena is derived from the Aramaic term "Magdala", meaning "tower" or "elevated, great." It refers to the town of Magdala on the Sea of Galilee, traditionally identified as the hometown of Mary Magdalene, a prominent figure in the New Testament who was a follower of Jesus.
The name was adopted from Aramaic into Greek as Μαγδαληνή and later into Latin as Magdalena. In Latin, it became more commonly used as a personal name, largely due to the association with Mary Magdalene, a revered saint in Christian tradition.
The name Madeleine is typically pronounced mah-DLEHN in French. In English it has several pronunciations: MAHD-uh-lihn or MAHD-uh-lein are the most common, with MAHD-uh-leen and MAHD-uh-lain heard occasionally. Pronunciations can vary based on region and preference.
Madelyn and Madalyn are alternative spellings. Diminutives include Maddy, Maddie, Madi, and Lena, Leni.

People named Madeleine

People named Madeline

Fictional characters