Find out how popular the first name Adele has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Adele by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Adele is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 334 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Adele.

The history of the first name Adele

The name Adele has its origins in the Germanic language, derived from the root word "adal," meaning noble or noble birth. It emerged as a given name during the Middle Ages, particularly in regions of Europe with German cultural influence.

The earliest recorded use of the name Adele dates back to the 8th century, when it appeared in Frankish chronicles and records. The name gained popularity in medieval Germany, often bestowed upon women of noble lineage or high social standing.

In the Christian tradition, the name Adele was sometimes associated with the biblical figure of Adah, one of the wives of Lamech mentioned in the Book of Genesis. However, the direct connection between the two names is uncertain, and the name Adele is more firmly rooted in its Germanic origins.

Throughout history, several notable women have borne the name Adele. One of the earliest examples is Adele of Pfalzel, a Frankish noblewoman born around 630 CE, who later became a revered saint in the Roman Catholic Church.

In the 11th century, Adele of Blois (1003-1063) was a countess and regent of the County of Blois in France. She played a significant role in the political affairs of her time and was known for her diplomatic abilities.

During the Renaissance, Adele Curti (1455-1510) was an Italian scholar and writer, renowned for her works on theology and philosophy. She was highly educated and respected in the intellectual circles of her era.

In the 19th century, Adele Spitzeder (1832-1895) was a prominent German businesswoman and philanthropist. She founded one of the largest department stores in Munich and was known for her charitable contributions to various causes.

Another famous Adele was Adele Sandrock (1880-1965), a German silent film actress who starred in numerous films during the early 20th century. She was a celebrated performer of her time and helped pave the way for women in the emerging film industry.

These are just a few examples of the notable women throughout history who have borne the name Adele, reflecting its enduring presence and the diverse backgrounds of those who have carried this name over the centuries.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Adele was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Adele, please contact us.

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