Madelayne is a unique and enchanting feminine given name of French origin. Derived from the French word "Madelaine," which itself stems from the Latin name Magdalene, Madelayne means "from Magdala" or "of Magdala." Magdala was a fishing village on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee in ancient Israel, where Mary Magdalene, an important figure in Christianity, is believed to have lived.
The name Madelayne first appeared in France during the Middle Ages and gained popularity due to its association with Mary Magdalene. Throughout history, it has been used sparingly but consistently, often appearing in French nobility and aristocracy. Today, Madelayne remains a rare and distinctive name, appealing to parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful moniker for their daughters.
In terms of pronunciation, Madelayne is typically sounded as /məˈdeɪlɪn/ or /məˌdeɪləˈneɪ/, with emphasis on the second syllable. It consists of three syllabic components: Ma-DEL-a-yne.
Overall, Madelayne is a captivating choice for parents looking to give their daughter a name that combines elegance, rarity, and historical significance. Its French roots lend it an air of sophistication, while its biblical connection imbues it with timeless relevance.
The name Madelayne has seen some variation in popularity over the years in the United States. In 2003, it was given to 5 newborn girls, while in 2008, that number increased slightly to 6 births. Overall, from these two years combined, there have been a total of 11 babies named Madelayne born in the United States. While not a particularly common name, it is unique and has seen some consistent usage over this time period. It will be interesting to see if its popularity continues to fluctuate or stabilizes in the coming years.