Angelina is a feminine given name of Italian origin. It is derived from the Italian word "angelo," which means "angel." The name Angelina has been used since the Middle Ages and was often given to children in honor of Saint Angela Merici, an Italian nun who founded the Ursuline Order in the 16th century.
The name Angelina gained popularity during the Renaissance period and continued to be widely used throughout Europe. In the United States, the name became particularly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with its peak popularity occurring in the 1990s.
Today, Angelina is still a popular choice for parents looking for a name with a touch of elegance and beauty. It has been used by many celebrities, including actresses Angelina Jolie and Angelina Castagnetti, further contributing to its enduring popularity. Despite its long history and widespread use, the name Angelina remains timeless and continues to be loved by many.
The name Angeline experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the given period. It started with a modest 25 births in 1880 and gradually increased to its peak of 949 births in 1917, marking a tremendous growth in popularity during this era. However, after World War I, there was a substantial decline in the usage of the name Angeline, reaching as low as 160 births in 2023, indicating a significant drop in its popularity over time.