The name Madelin is derived from the French name Madeleine, which is the French form of the ancient Hebrew name Magdalene. Magdalene was the name of the biblical figure Mary Magdalene, one of the closest followers of Jesus Christ. The name Magdalene itself is derived from the Hebrew word "Migdal", meaning "tower" or "elevated", and likely refers to the town of Magdala in ancient Galilee.

The name Madeleine became popular in France during the Middle Ages, and variations such as Madelin and Madeline emerged as diminutive forms of the name. These forms of the name were common in France and other parts of Europe throughout the medieval and Renaissance periods.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Madelin can be found in the 12th century French epic poem "The Song of Roland", where a character named Madelin is mentioned. Another notable historical figure with this name was Madelin of Savoy, a 13th-century Countess of Savoy who played a significant role in the politics of the region.

In the 16th century, Madelin de l'Aubespine was a French diplomat and secretary of state under King Henry IV. A century later, Madelin de Demandolx was a French dramatist and playwright who wrote several successful plays during the reign of King Louis XIV.

In the 19th century, Madelin Lemaire was a French painter and sculptor who was known for her portraits and religious works. Around the same time, Madelin Cléry was a French writer and journalist who wrote extensively about the French Revolution.

Throughout history, the name Madelin has been borne by numerous notable individuals across various fields, including art, literature, politics, and religion. While its origins can be traced back to ancient Hebrew and biblical references, it has become a popular name in many cultures, particularly in France and other parts of Europe.