The Story Behind Madison

Madison originated as a surname derived from the English place name Meadow of Maudlin. ‘Maudlin’ itself comes from the Old English words ‘mōd’ (mood) and ‘lin’ (fine, gentle), suggesting a serene meadow. As a first name, Madison gained popularity in the 20th century, initially for girls but experiencing a significant shift towards male usage in recent decades. This transformation reflects evolving gender norms and changing naming trends.

Pronunciation Guide

IPA: /məˈdɪsn/

Phonetic: muh-DIHS-en

Gender Identity

male

Nickname Potential

  • Madi
  • Mady
  • Dis
  • Addi

Famous Madisons

  • Madison Beer — American singer and songwriter
  • Madison Square Garden — Iconic sports arena in New York City
  • Madison Leitch — Australian actress

Cultural and Regional Prevalence

Madison is most popular in the United States, consistently ranking among the top names for boys. It enjoys widespread recognition throughout North America and has gained traction in other English-speaking countries due to increased global cultural exchange.

Names with Similar Vibes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Madison a biblical name?

No, Madison does not have direct biblical origins. It derives from a place name.

What does Madison mean?

Madison means ‘from the meadow of Maudlin,’ suggesting serenity and gentleness.

Is Madison a unisex name?

While historically used for girls, Madison is now predominantly considered a male name.