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Marie Lanen
Head of parenting sections (baby, pregnancy, family), psychology and beauty
Classic, elegant and full of history, this feminine first name is experiencing stable growth in 2024. Carrying values of nobility and refinement, it seduces parents in search of originality and tradition. At the crossroads of timeless charm and modernity, this first name attracts with its musicality and deep meaning.
The name Adelaide, although rarely used in recent decades, is experiencing stable growth in 2024 (it is among the top 400 most popular girls’ names). Rooted in history, it appeals to many parents looking for a classic, elegant and timeless name. But who is Adelaide, and why is this once royal name finding renewed interest?
Origin and history of the first name Adélaïde
Adelaide is a first name of Germanic origin, derived from “adal” which means “noble” and “heid” which means “lineage” or “appearance”. It was therefore borne by those from noble lineages, symbolizing both nobility of birth and greatness of soul.
One of the most famous historical figures to bear this name is Adelaide of Burgundy (931-999), Empress of the Holy Roman Empire, who played a prominent political role in the 20th century. This medieval form of Alice was borne by two queens of France and several European sovereigns. The popularity of the English Queen Adelaide (queen consort, wife of William IV) may have given wings to the name. She is at the origin of the name of the Australian city Adelaide, created in 1836 in her honor.
Saint Adelaide is also canonized, making it a name associated with holiness and piety. Very popular in the Middle Ages, the name gradually disappeared over the centuries before being reborn sporadically. Adelaide enjoyed a small vogue in France, Italy and English-speaking countries in the 19th century. Today, this name is borne by 9,000 people in France.
A first name with classic and timeless charm
Adélaïde perfectly embodies elegance and sophistication. In 2024, it is carried by an aura of timeless classicism that appeals to parents looking to stand out from more common names. Adélaïde is both rare, but instantly recognizable. It evokes an old-world charm while retaining a certain modernity thanks to its soft sound.
In a context where vintage-inspired names like Louise, Alice or Marguerite are making a comeback, Adélaïde appears to be a bold and refined choice. Its return also reflects a trend towards the reappropriation of historical names, often associated with a certain nobility or grandeur.
Adelaide’s popularity in 2024
In 2024, the name Adélaïde is part of this wave of names that are experiencing a renaissance. Although it remains relatively rare, it is becoming a sought-after choice for parents who want to find a name that is both steeped in history and uncommon. According to recent trends, long names with an aristocratic allure are becoming very popular again, in a desire to reconnect with traditional values, while asserting a touch of originality.
Although Adelaide is far from being in the top 10 most popular first names, it has a stable presence and continues to seduce. Parents who opt for Adelaide are often looking to give their daughter a strong and distinctive first name, which exudes class and confidence. The first name is also chosen for its multiple possible diminutives, such as Ada, Adèle, or Heidi.
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