Unearthing Madge’s Roots
Madge is primarily a diminutive of Margaret, a name with ancient Greek origins. Margaret itself derives from the Greek word ‘margarites,’ meaning ‘pearl.’ As a nickname, Madge gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in Britain and North America, often associated with a sense of quaintness and old-fashioned charm.
Pronunciation Guide
IPA: /mædʒ/
Phonetic: MAJ
Gender Identity
female
Affectionate Nicknames
- Maggie
- Maggie May
- Mags
Historical Figures Named Madge
- Madge Steptoe — British actress known for her roles in British films and television
- Madge Collins — British actress and television personality
Cultural Associations
Madge carries a strong association with British culture, particularly the mid-20th century. It evokes images of traditional English life and is often found in literature and film from that era. While not widely used for newborns today, it retains a nostalgic appeal.
Geographic Prevalence
Madge’s popularity peaked in Britain and Commonwealth countries like Australia and New Zealand. Its usage has declined significantly in recent decades but remains recognizable as a vintage name.
Names with Shared Origins
Quick FAQs
What does Madge mean?
It’s a diminutive of Margaret, meaning ‘pearl’.
Is Madge a popular name today?
No, it is considered a vintage or old-fashioned name.
Is Madge biblical?
Margaret, the root name, has historical connections to early Christian figures, though Madge itself isn’t directly biblical.