Evangelyn is a unique and elegant given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "euangelion," which means "good news." This name has been popular among Christians since early times, as it reflects the joyous message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
The name Evangelyn was first recorded in England during the Middle Ages, although its usage was not widespread until much later. It is believed that the name gained popularity due to the influence of the French form "Evangeline," which became popular after the publication of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "Evangeline: A Tale of Acadie" in 1847.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Evangelyn. One of the most famous is Saint Evangeline, also known as Evangeline of the Holy Face. Born in Italy in the 15th century, she was a Dominican nun who became known for her devotion to prayer and charity work among the poor. She was eventually canonized by the Catholic Church in 1737.
Despite its historical significance, Evangelyn remains relatively uncommon today. However, it continues to be a popular choice among parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters. Its unique sound and beautiful meaning make Evangelyn an attractive option for those looking for something special.
The statistics provided show the number of babies named Evangelyn born each year in the United States from 1920 to 2023. Over this period, there have been a total of 398 births.
The name's popularity has varied over time. It was first given to six baby girls in 1920, but its usage declined significantly in the following decades, with fewer than five births recorded each year between 1924 and 1965.
However, there was a resurgence in its popularity starting from the late 1970s. The name reached its peak in recent years, with 31 babies named Evangelyn born in 2011 and another high of 38 births in 2023. This trend suggests that while the name may not have been widely used throughout most of the 20th century, it has seen renewed popularity in recent decades.
Overall, these statistics provide an interesting snapshot of how the name Evangelyn has evolved in usage over time in the United States.