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Evelyn Girl

Popularity: #8 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationEV-lin / ˈɛv.lɪn

English; French

Meaning

English: desired; French: hazelnut

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Evelyn has its roots in the Old French name "Aveline," which is derived from the Latin "avellana," meaning "hazelnut." The name entered the English language during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, where it evolved through various forms, including "Avelin" and "Evelin." Over time, it became more commonly used as a feminine name, particularly in the 19th century, when it gained popularity in English-speaking countries.

Historically, the name Evelyn has been associated with several notable figures. One of the earliest recorded uses in English literature can be traced to the 16th century, with references appearing in various texts. The name was also borne by Evelyn Waugh, a prominent English novelist of the early 20th century, who contributed to its cultural significance. Additionally, the name has been linked to various saints and religious figures, further embedding it within the historical narrative of Christian naming traditions.

Culturally, Evelyn has often been associated with notions of life and renewal, likely stemming from its connection to nature through the hazelnut symbolism. This association has contributed to its enduring appeal across generations. The name has also seen variations and diminutives, such as "Evie," which have been used affectionately in various contexts. Overall, Evelyn's etymological journey and historical significance reflect a rich tapestry of linguistic and cultural evolution, making it a name with deep roots in both language and tradition.

Trend Summary

Evelyn has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, ranking among the top names for girls in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Evelina
  • Evie

International Variants

  • Evelyne (French)
  • Evelina (Italian)
  • Evelyn (Spanish)

Famous people named Evelyn

Evelyn Waugh is a novelist best known for Brideshead Revisited, A Handful of Dust, and Scoop.

Evelyn Glennie is a percussionist best known for her solo performances and collaborations with various orchestras.

Evelyn Ankers is an actress best known for her roles in The Wolf Man, The Ghost of Frankenstein, and Son of Dracula.

Evelyn Ashford is an athlete best known for her achievements in track and field, including Olympic gold medals in the 100 meters and 4x100 meter relay.

Evelyn Lauder is a businesswoman best known for her work with Estée Lauder and founding the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Evelyn Keyes is an actress best known for her roles in Gone with the Wind, The Seven Year Itch, and The Jolson Story.

Evelyn Nesbit is a model and actress best known for her involvement in the murder trial of Harry Thaw and her role in the early 20th-century scandal.

Evelyn S. R. is a writer best known for her contributions to the field of literature and her notable works in fiction.

Fictional characters named Evelyn

Evelyn Carnahan is a fictional character from the film The Mummy. She is an adventurous and intelligent Egyptologist who becomes embroiled in a battle against ancient evil.

Evelyn Wang is a fictional character from the film Everything Everywhere All at Once. She is a Chinese-American woman who discovers her multiverse-spanning abilities while navigating her family's struggles.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Evelyn was first seen in the United States in 1880. Evelyn has ranked as high as #23 nationally, which occurred in 1921, and has been most popular in New York, California, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Evelyn has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Evelyn (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 955
11%
CA 895
10%
OH 413
5%
FL 410
5%
NY 352
4%
PA 337
4%
NC 310
4%
IL 306
4%
GA 297
3%
TN 278
3%
WA 257
3%
VA 248
3%
IN 233
3%
MN 222
3%
MO 214
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880122
1881116
1882125
1883139
1884170
1885191
1886203
1887194
1888237
1889320
1890316
1891362
1892418
1893457
1894491
1895630
1896646
1897690
1898836
1899802
19001,116
1901966
19021,151
19031,211
19041,372
19051,661
19062,077
19073,035
19082,857
19093,157
19103,777
19114,076
19125,620
19136,683
19148,506
191511,595
191611,889
191712,532
191813,493
191913,321
192013,838
192114,278
192213,319
192313,174
192413,358
192512,505
192611,780
192711,495
192810,533
19299,886
19309,536
19318,491
19327,958
19336,948
19346,983
19356,560
19366,108
19375,760
19385,688
19395,331
19404,982
19414,929
19424,940
19434,912
19444,516
19454,377
19464,890
19475,243
19484,840
19494,529
19504,275
19514,232
19524,155
19534,064
19543,952
19553,805
19563,748
19573,640
19583,275
19593,265
19603,218
19612,941
19622,781
19632,566
19642,380
19652,003
19661,872
19671,723
19681,645
19691,452
19701,466
19711,301
19721,060
19731,015
1974942
1975868
1976819
1977832
1978820
1979852
1980859
19811,031
19821,377
19831,139
19841,050
19851,132
19861,081
19871,012
19881,124
19891,171
19901,302
19911,269
19921,411
19931,347
19941,451
19951,508
19961,596
19971,571
19981,707
19991,964
20002,223
20012,692
20023,372
20033,701
20043,763
20054,489
20064,751
20075,054
20085,100
20095,584
20105,843
20116,709
20126,880
20137,668
20148,753
20159,376
201610,116
201710,747
201810,432
201910,441
20209,516
20219,489
20229,330
20239,113
20249,116