The name Natalie is derived from the Latin word "natalis", which means "birthday" or "relating to birth". This name has its origins in ancient Rome and was initially used as a surname or a descriptive term for those born on Christmas Day or the feast day of Christ's nativity.

Natalie first emerged as a given name during the Middle Ages, particularly in France and Italy. It gained popularity among Christians, who often chose names with religious or Biblical connotations. The earliest recorded use of Natalie as a first name dates back to the 12th century in France.

In the 16th century, Natalie became a more common name in Western Europe, particularly in France and Italy. One of the earliest notable bearers of the name was Natalie Delayrue, a French Huguenot who lived from 1541 to 1620 and was known for her religious writings and poetry.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Natalie remained a popular name among the European aristocracy and nobility. One notable figure was Natalie Delorme, a French courtesan and writer who lived from 1633 to 1705 and was famous for her memoirs and literary salon.

In the 19th century, the name Natalie gained widespread popularity across Europe and beyond. One of the most famous bearers of the name was Natalie Pushkina, a Russian writer and the wife of the famous poet Alexander Pushkin, who lived from 1812 to 1863.

Another notable Natalie from this period was Natalie Brassova, a Russian prima ballerina who lived from 1880 to 1952 and was celebrated for her performances with the Imperial Ballet of St. Petersburg.

In the 20th century, Natalie continued to be a popular name in various countries. One of the most famous Natalies was Natalie Wood, an American actress who lived from 1938 to 1981 and starred in many classic films, including "Rebel Without a Cause" and "West Side Story".

Another well-known Natalie was Natalie Portman, an Israeli-American actress born in 1981, who rose to fame with her roles in films such as "Star Wars" and "Black Swan", for which she won an Academy Award.