Evelyn is a female given name of English origin, derived from the Old English name Ælfgifu, which means "life" or "lively". The name was popular during the Middle Ages and was often used for queens and nobles. It is believed that the name Evelyn gained popularity in England due to its association with several historical figures, such as Queen Evelyn of Scotland and the French poet Eustache Deschamps who wrote a poem about a woman named Éveline.
Over time, Evelyn has evolved and taken on different spellings, including Evelyn, Evelyn, Evalyn, and Evelynne. Despite these variations, the name remains popular today, particularly in English-speaking countries such as England, Wales, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
In literature and popular culture, Evelyn has been featured prominently. Notable examples include Evelyn Waugh, an English novelist known for his satirical wit, and Evelyn, a character from the novel "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. The name has also appeared in various films, television shows, and songs, further contributing to its popularity.
Overall, Evelyn is a classic yet timeless name with a rich history that spans centuries and continents. Its association with life and vitality makes it a fitting choice for parents looking for a meaningful and memorable name for their daughter.
Evelyn is a classic and timeless name that has seen fluctuations in popularity over the decades in the United States. In 1929, there were only 5 babies named Evelyn born in the US. This number remained relatively stable for many years, but it started to decline gradually until it reached its lowest point in recent history with just 6 births recorded in 2016.
However, since then, we have seen a resurgence in popularity for this name. In 2018 alone, there were 7 babies named Evelyn born in the United States, indicating that this name may be making a comeback among new parents.
Overall, between 1929 and 2018, there have been a total of 18 births registered with the name Evelyn in the US. While it's not one of the most popular names today, it still maintains a steady presence on the naming scene, with enough occurrences to suggest that many families continue to appreciate its charm and uniqueness.