Adeline is a unique and captivating female given name of French origin. It is derived from the French word "adelin," which is a diminutive form of the Germanic name Adalheidis. This name has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.
The name Adaline is believed to have been introduced into France during the medieval period by way of the Normans, who brought it with them from their ancestral home in Germany. Over time, the name evolved and became more widely used in French-speaking regions. Today, it is still popular among Francophone communities around the world.
The meaning of Adeline varies depending on its derivation. If traced back to its Germanic roots, the name may be interpreted as "noble" or "noble kind." However, some sources suggest that Adeline means "tender" or "soft," likely referring to the diminutive suffix "-in."
Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Adeline. One of the most famous is Adélaïde of France (1732-1800), a daughter of Louis XV and wife of the Duke of Orleans. Another prominent Adeline was Adeline Yen Mah, a Chinese-born author known for her memoir "Falling Leaves: The Most Intimate Portrait of Chinese Women in the Twentieth Century."
Adeline is an elegant and distinctive name with deep roots in French history. It offers parents who choose this name for their daughter the opportunity to give her a unique identity while also connecting her to a rich cultural heritage.
The name Adline has seen a fluctuating trend in popularity over the years, with peaks and troughs between 1880 and 1991. The highest number of births recorded was 37 in 1919, while the lowest was just 5 in 1961 and 1991. Overall, there were a total of 1177 births during this period.