Magdalena
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Magdalena
Magdalena, which has 9 letters and 4 syllables, is a female name of Spanish origin.
Meaning of Magdalena
Woman from magdala
Magdalena is a feminine name of Hebrew origin meaning “woman from Magdala”. Magdala was a town on the Sea of Galilee mentioned in the New Testament, and the name can also be interpreted to mean “tower” or “elevated”. The name is often shortened to Lena or Magda.
| Meaning | Woman from magdala |
| Origin | Spanish |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #838 in 2024 Rising Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Magdalena
The name Magdalena is of Latin origin and has a rich historical and cultural significance. It originates from the Hebrew name "Magdala," meaning "tower." Magdalena is most commonly associated with Mary Magdalene, a biblical figure known as one of Jesus Christ's followers. According to Christian tradition, Mary Magdalene played a significant role in the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.
In addition to its biblical connotations, the name Magdalena has acquired a widespread popularity as a given name in various cultures. It is particularly common in Spanish-speaking countries, where it is often shortened to "Magda" or "Magui." Other variations of the name include Magdalene, Madeline, Magda, Lena, and Lin.
People named Magdalena are often described as strong, independent, and empathetic individuals. They are known to possess great emotional intelligence and are often drawn to helping others. Magdalenas tend to be natural leaders, utilizing their strong sense of intuition and profound understanding of human nature to guide and inspire those around them.
The popularity of the name Magdalena has extended beyond individuals and has been used to name various geographical locations, literary characters, and artworks. For example, the Chilean city of Magdalena del Mar, located in the capital city of Santiago, pays homage to the name. In literature, Magdalena is a recurring character in Nobel laureate Gabriel Garcia Marquez's novel "One Hundred Years of Solitude," representing resilience and passion.
Overall, the name Magdalena carries a rich history, religious significance, and cultural diversity. Whether as a biblical reference or a contemporary given name, Magdalena continues to be cherished and celebrated for its timeless beauty and inspiring qualities.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Magdalena over the years.
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Magdalena.
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