Amélie is a charming and elegant French given name derived from the Germanic element "Amala," which means "work." It has gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly in France and other Francophone countries.
The name Amélie first appeared in French literature during the Middle Ages, but it was not widely used until the 19th century. The most famous bearer of this name is arguably the character Amélie Poulain from the Academy Award-winning French film "Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain" (Amélie), directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet in 2001. This whimsical tale of a shy waitress who decides to change the lives of those around her has helped popularize the name both in France and internationally.
Despite its Germanic origin, Amélie is strongly associated with French culture and has been widely adopted in Francophone countries. It has also gained popularity in English-speaking nations, particularly among parents who appreciate its charming sound and elegant simplicity.
In terms of variants and related names, Amélie has several forms across different languages. These include Amelia in Italian, Spanish, and English; Amalia in German and Hungarian; and Amelie in Dutch and Scandinavian languages. Some common diminutives and pet forms include Mélie, Melie, and Ami.
Overall, the name Amélie is a beautiful and refined choice that pays homage to its French roots while also appealing to parents across various cultures. Its unique sound and elegant meaning make it an attractive option for those seeking a distinctive yet approachable name for their child.
The name Amelie experienced fluctuations in popularity throughout the decades, with a significant rise starting around the year 2000. Between 1886 and 1947, there were fewer than ten births per year on average, with the highest being 16 births in 1917. However, from 1950 onwards, the number of Amelie births began to increase, reaching double digits consistently by the 1970s.
The turning point occurred around the late 1980s to early 1990s, with over 17 births per year between 1990 and 1992. The name gained considerable popularity in the 2000s, reaching a peak of 466 births in 2013. Since then, the popularity of Amelie has somewhat decreased but still remains high, with over 300 births per year until 2022.
In total, there were 8929 recorded births for the name Amelie from 1886 to 2023.