Adele is a feminine given name of German origin. The name comes from the Germanic word "Adalheidis", which is composed of two elements: "adal" meaning noble, and "heid" meaning kind or bright. Therefore, Adele means "noble and kind" or "high nobility". In some instances, it can also mean "noble and wealthy".
The name Adele has a long history and was popular among European royalty during the Middle Ages. One of the most notable figures with this name is Saint Adélaïde, who was the wife of Louis I, King of France in the 9th century. She is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church for her piety and kindness towards the poor.
Over time, Adele has evolved into various forms across different languages and cultures. Some variations include Adelia, Adelina, Adelaïde, and Adalheid. Despite these variations, the core meaning of nobility and kindness remains consistent throughout.
Today, Adele is still a popular name among parents seeking a unique yet classic choice for their daughters. It has been used by several notable figures throughout history, including singers such as Adele Laurie Blue Adkins (born 1988), who is known simply as "Adele" and is a highly successful recording artist from the United Kingdom.
In literature, there are characters named Adele in works like "The Age of Innocence" by Edith Wharton and "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin. These appearances further illustrate how the name Adele has been integrated into various aspects of culture and society over time.
Overall, Adele is an elegant and timeless name with a rich history that spans centuries and continents. Its meaning reflects qualities of nobility, kindness, and brightness, making it a suitable choice for parents seeking a meaningful and memorable name for their daughter.
"The name Adele has seen a significant rise and fall over the years. Starting with just 41 births in 1880, it peaked at 1030 births in 1918 before declining to its current level of around 340 births annually."