Meaning, origin, history
Jacquelyn is a feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the French name Jacqueline, which itself comes from the masculine name Jacquette. The name Jacquette is believed to have originated from the nickname form of Jacques, which means "supplanter" or "follower of Saint James." Therefore, Jacquelyn can be interpreted as meaning "one who follows Saint James."
The name Jacquelyn has been popular in English-speaking countries for several decades. It gained prominence in the United States during the mid-20th century and remained a popular choice throughout the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Today, Jacquelyn is still used as a given name, although its popularity has waned somewhat since its peak in the latter half of the 20th century.
Some notable individuals named Jacquelyn include American actresses Jaclyn Smith and Jacqueline Bisset, both of whom were born in the mid-20th century. The name Jacquelyn also appears in literature and popular culture, such as in the character Jackie Kennedy, who was the wife of U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
Overall, Jacquelyn is a classic feminine given name with French origins and a timeless meaning that has been associated with strength and grace for centuries. While its popularity may have fluctuated over time, Jacquelyn remains an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet traditional name for their daughter.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jacquelyn since 1880
Total births
110
Total since 1880
Peak year
1982
10 births
in 1990
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years