Girl name origins & meanings
What does Evelyn mean and stand for?
Meaning:
- English: Desired; or a variant form of Eve, meaning life or living one
- German: Uncertain, possibly related to the bird name Aveline, meaning bird
Gender: Female
Syllables: 3
Pronunciation: The name Evelyn is pronounced ev-uh-lin
The name Evelyn originally derived from the French name Aveline, which was a diminutive of Ava, and means "desired" or "wished for child." It has evolved from a surname and was popularized as a first name in the English-speaking world, blending smoothly with the Victorian era's penchant for elaborate names.
How Popular Is The Name Evelyn
Family name origins & meanings
English: from the Middle English, Old French female personal name Aveline, a double diminutive of the Germanic personal name Avo, from the element avi, perhaps meaning "desired", "wished for."
Famous people who gave their babies this name
Evelyn in Pop Culture
Do you know these fictional characters that share the first name?
- Evelyn Carnahan from The Mummy - A librarian and Egyptologist who finds herself on an adventure to stop an ancient curse.
- Evelyn Harper from Two and a Half Men - The wealthy, self-absorbed mother of Charlie and Alan Harper.
- Evelyn Cross Mulwray from Chinatown - A mysterious and tragic figure entangled in a complex plot regarding water rights in 1930s Los Angeles.
- Evelyn Poole from Penny Dreadful - A powerful witch with a complex relationship to the main characters.
- Evelyn Abbott from A Quiet Place - A mother fighting for her family's survival in a world overrun by creatures that hunt by sound.
Popularity of the Name Evelyn
According to Social Security Administration data, Evelyn has consistently been a popular name in the United States, maintaining its position within the top 10 names for several years. It has a rich historical background with notable individuals bearing the name.
Historically, Evelyn has been associated with prominent figures such as the English poet and diarist Evelyn Waugh, as well as actress Evelyn Keyes known for her role in the film Gone with the Wind. In literature, Evelyn is a name that has appeared in various works including the novel Evelina by Fanny Burney. The enduring popularity of the name Evelyn showcases its timeless charm and appeal.
Where Is the Name Evelyn Popular?
This name is most popular across certain states in the U.S., including those highlighted on the map below.
Nicknames for Evelyn
These shortened names can make great nicknames for your baby.
- Ev
- Evie
- Evy
Evelyn Pairs Well With These Middle Names
Looking for a middle name that fits perfectly? Consider these!
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