Magdalen is a unique and elegant given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Hebrew name "Magdalene," which means "from Magdal-nen." The name is believed to have been borne by Mary Magdalen, a follower of Jesus Christ who was present at his crucifixion and resurrection according to the New Testament.
In addition to its biblical origins, the name Magdalen has also been associated with several historical figures throughout history. One notable example is Saint Magdalen of Nagasaki, a Japanese martyr who was canonized in 1862 for her faith during a time of religious persecution.
The name Magdalen has been used as a given name since medieval times and has been particularly popular in English-speaking countries such as England, Ireland, and the United States. It is often associated with intelligence, sophistication, and creativity, reflecting the qualities of its historical figures and biblical origins.
Today, Magdalen remains a distinctive and appealing name choice for parents looking to give their daughter a unique and meaningful name. Its rich history and elegant sound make it a timeless option that continues to be loved by many.
These statistics show a varied trend in the number of babies named Magdalen born each year over a span of 142 years, from 1880 to 2022. The name's popularity peaked during World War I, with 92 births recorded in 1915. However, it appears that Magdalen has not been a particularly common name overall, with an average of approximately 23 births per year. In recent years, the number of Magdalen births has fluctuated between single digits and double digits, with no clear trend towards increased or decreased popularity.