The name Adelynn is a variant of the German name Adeline, which itself is derived from the Old German name Adalheidis. Adalheidis is composed of the elements "adal," meaning noble, and "heid," meaning kind or sort. The name emerged during the Middle Ages in German-speaking regions of Europe.

Adelynn and its variants have been used throughout history, though not as commonly as some other names. One of the earliest recorded instances is Adeline of Blois, a 10th-century French noblewoman. Another early bearer was Adeline of Normandy, who lived in the 11th century and was the daughter of Robert I, Duke of Normandy.

In the 12th century, Adeline of Burgundy was a countess who ruled over portions of modern-day France and Belgium. During the same century, Adeline of Havelberg was a German abbess and religious figure.

Moving into more recent times, Adeline Genée (1878-1970) was a renowned Danish ballet dancer and choreographer. She was celebrated for her performances in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Another notable figure was Adeline Virginia Woolf (1882-1941), the English writer and pioneering modernist novelist known for works such as "Mrs. Dalloway" and "To the Lighthouse."

While not as widely used as some other names throughout history, Adelynn and its variants have been borne by various individuals, from noblewomen and religious figures to artists and writers, spanning multiple centuries and cultures.