Jacqueline is a feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the masculine name Jacques, which is ultimately derived from the Latin name Jacobus. The name Jacobus is itself derived from the Hebrew name Ya'aqov, which means "holder of the heel" or "supplanter."
The name Jacqueline has been popular in France for centuries, and it was borne by several notable figures in French history. One of the most famous Jacqueline was Jacqueline de Bavière (1478-1541), who was a duchess of Bavaria and later became the wife of René II, Duke of Lorraine. Another well-known Jacqueline was Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (1929-1994), an American socialite and former First Lady of the United States.
The name Jacqueline has also been popular in other French-speaking countries, such as Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada. In English-speaking countries, it gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly after the marriage of Jacqueline Kennedy to John F. Kennedy in 1953.
Overall, Jacqueline is a classic and elegant name with a rich history and a strong association with France. Its meaning adds to its appeal, as it suggests strength and determination. Despite its French origins, Jacqueline has been embraced by many cultures around the world and continues to be popular today.
The name Jacqueline experienced a significant increase in popularity during the mid-20th century, peaking in the late 1960s and early 1970s with over 300 births per year from 1964 to 1975. However, it has seen a steady decline since then, with fewer than 20 births annually recorded after 2008.