Maddie is a popular and beloved name for girls that has gained widespread usage in recent years. Originating from the English name Madeline or Madeleine, Maddie is of French origin. It means "from Magdala," which refers to a town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee where Mary Magdalene, one of Jesus Christ's most devoted followers, was believed to have lived.
The name Maddie has been used for centuries but gained prominence in the late 19th century when it became popularized by various literary works. In Louisa May Alcott's "Little Women," one of the main characters is named Meg March, whose nickname is Maddie. The name also appeared in L.M. Montgomery's "Anne of Green Gables" series, where a character named Madeline is referred to as Maddie.
In more recent times, the name Maddie has been popularized by celebrities such as actresses Madeleine Petsch and Maddie Ziegler, as well as Olympic gymnast Madison Kocian. This has contributed to its increasing popularity in the 21st century.
Overall, Maddie is a charming and classic name that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance. Its French origin gives it an elegant and sophisticated feel, while its shortened form makes it approachable and friendly. Whether you're looking for a name with deep roots or one that's easy to pronounce and remember, Maddie fits the bill perfectly.
The name Maddie has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century, with its popularity waxing and waning over time.
From 1893 to 1945, there were relatively few births with the name Maddie each year, ranging from just 6 to a peak of 17 in 1922. However, starting in the late 1980s, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name.
In 1986, there were 45 births with the name Maddie, and this number continued to rise throughout the 1990s. By the year 2000, there were 113 births with the name Maddie, a significant jump from just two decades prior.
The popularity of Maddie continued to grow into the 2000s and 2010s, with over 200 births each year since 2014. In fact, in 2022 there were 326 births with the name Maddie, making it one of the most popular names that year.
Overall, there have been a total of 5639 births with the name Maddie in the United States over the past century. This represents a significant increase in popularity for the name over time, particularly since the late 1980s.