Evelyn

Evelyn is a given name of English origin that is commonly used for girls in contemporary English-speaking countries. It is also found as a surname. Although historically used for both genders, in modern usage Evelyn is predominantly feminine in many contexts.

Etymology: The name likely derives from the English surname Evelyn, which itself originated from the Old French personal name Avélin or Aveline, a diminutive form of Ava. The precise origin is uncertain, but the form entered popular usage as a given name in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Usage and popularity: In the United States and United Kingdom, Evelyn rose to high rankings on baby-name lists in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is often shortened to Evie or Eve and has inspired numerous variations in other languages.

Notable people: As a given name, Evelyn has been borne by writers such as Evelyn Waugh (1903–1966), an English novelist known for Brideshead Revisited; and by musicians such as Evelyn Glennie (born 1963), a Scottish percussionist who is deaf. As a surname, John Evelyn (1620–1706) is known for his diaries and writings on science and antiquities. Others include Evelyn Nesbit (1884–1967), an American model.

In fiction and media, characters named Evelyn appear in a variety of works, including Evelyn Carnahan in The Mummy films, Evelyn Salt in the film Salt, and Evelyn Deavor in The Incredibles 2. Related forms include Evie, Evelyne, and Aveline, with Eva and Eve as related names.