The name Magdalena carries deep biblical roots and is widely understood to mean "of Magdala", a village in Galilee known for its beauty and prosperity. This connection imbues the name with a sense of historical richness and religious significance, linking it to the New Testament where Mary Magdalene was a prominent figure. The name conveys a sense of the bearer being beautiful and strong, embodying attributes of resilience and grace.
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/maɡda'le.na/ - מַגְדָּלֵנָה
Magdalena is pronounced "mah-gda-LEH-nah" with emphasis on the "LEH," as in the English word 'leg'.
The name Magdalena originates from Hebrew and is prominently noted in Christian texts due to Mary Magdalene, one of Jesus' followers. The name is a locational surname derived from Magdala, a town by the Sea of Galilee. Over centuries, it transcended religious circles and became prevalent across Christian communities in Europe, particularly in Germany and Poland.
Magdalena is traditionally a female name and maintains a historical resonance linked to female figures in religious texts. While primarily used for females, certain cultures have adopted variations for informal use by males. In countries like Germany and Poland, the name's cultural roots reinforce its feminine association, and figures like Magdalena Neuner, a renowned German biathlete, affirm its female prominence.
The name Magdalena enjoys consistent popularity, particularly in Poland and Germany, where it frequently appears among the top baby names. Historically, its popularity surged during the medieval era driven by its religious significance. Today, while it may not top the charts, it holds steady appeal in many European countries, reflecting a trend of preference for classic, religious names.
Across various cultures, the use of Magdalena reflects its enduring charm and historical significance. In France, it appears as Madeleine, and in Hungary, as Magdolna. Spanish speaking regions also embrace it warmly. Diverse pronunciations and spellings exist globally, but its core essence remains widely recognized, carrying echoes of its religious roots and cultural heritage.
| Global Distribution and Gender Ratio of the Name Magdalena | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Country | Usage % | Female % | Male % |
| Poland | 14.28% | 99.31% | 0.69% |
| Indonesia | 14.28% | 100% | 0% |
| Mexico | 12.46% | 99.6% | 0.4% |
| Chile | 8.47% | 100% | 0% |
| United States | 8.27% | 100% | 0% |
The name Magdalena means "of Magdala" with roots in biblical history, often conveying beauty and strength.
Magdalena has Hebrew origins and is linked to Mary Magdalene from the Christian tradition, recognized across Europe.
Yes, Magdalena is traditionally a female name, commonly used in cultures like Germany and Poland.
Magdalena remains popular in countries like Poland and Germany, retaining its classic appeal over the years.
Magdalena is embraced globally, with various pronunciations in countries like France (Madeleine) and Hungary (Magdolna).
People named Magdalena often excel in fields like creative arts, education, and leadership roles.
Characteristic features include being intellectual, empathetic, and courageous.
Similar names include Madeleine, Magda, and Magdaline, sharing heritage and meaning.
In Hebrew, Magdalena is written as מַגְדָּלֵנָה and pronounced /maɡda'le.na/.