The name Adeline has its origins in the Germanic languages, deriving from the root word "adal" meaning "noble" or "nobility." It is a feminine form of the masculine name Adelin or Adelinus, which were used in various forms across Europe during the Middle Ages.

The earliest recorded use of the name Adeline dates back to the 9th century, when it appeared in French records. It gained popularity in France during the medieval period and was particularly favored among the nobility and upper classes, reflecting its connotations of nobility and distinction.

Adeline was also used in England during the Middle Ages, where it was sometimes spelled as "Adelina" or "Adelyna." One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Adeline of Normandy, the daughter of Robert I, Duke of Normandy, who lived in the 11th century.

In literature, the name Adeline appears in the works of various authors throughout history. One notable example is the character Adeline in the novel "The Romance of the Forest" by Ann Radcliffe, published in 1791. This helped to popularize the name during the 19th century.

Over the centuries, several notable women have borne the name Adeline. These include:

1. Adeline Genée (1878-1970), a Danish ballet dancer and choreographer who was renowned for her technical mastery and artistry.
2. Adeline Louisa Maria Hartpence Howland (1859-1934), an American educator and activist who fought for women's rights and educational reform.
3. Adeline Virginia Woolf (1882-1941), the renowned English writer and one of the foremost modernist authors of the 20th century.
4. Adeline de Walt Reynolds (1863-1961), an American philanthropist and art collector who helped establish the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
5. Adeline Yen Mah (born 1937), a Chinese-American author and physician, best known for her autobiographical works exploring her difficult childhood.

While the name Adeline has roots in antiquity, it has endured through the centuries and remains a popular choice for parents today, reflecting its timeless elegance and aristocratic associations.