All about the name

Eveyln

Female

« Evelyn is an English female given name derived from the Old English Ælfgifu, meaning "life" or "lively". »

#22030 over 5 years

Meaning, origin, history

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.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Eveyln since 1880

Total births
18
Total since 1880
Peak year
2018
7 births
in 2018
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+17%
vs previous 5 years