Madison
Madison is a unisex name of English origin meaning “Son of Maud”, pronounced MAD-ih-suhn. It ranked #40 in the United States in 2025, given to 4,945 babies, and peaked at #2 in 2001. Common nicknames: Maddie, Mads, Maddy.
How popular is Madison in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Madison mean, and where does it come from?
Madison originated as an English surname meaning "son of Maud" or "son of Matthew," with Maud being a medieval form of Matilda. The name's transformation into a popular girl's first name is often credited to the 1984 film Splash, in which Daryl Hannah's mermaid character chose the name Madison after seeing a Madison Avenue street sign. Before the film, Madison was almost exclusively a surname or boy's name. By 2001, it had climbed to the second most popular girl name in America. It exemplifies the modern trend of adopting surnames as feminine first names, blending strength with sophistication.
How is Madison used around the world?
Madison is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Madison?
Famous People Named Madison
- Madison Beer — American singer and songwriter
- James Madison — fourth President of the United States
- Madison Keys — American professional tennis player
Similar Names to Madison
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Sibling Name Ideas for Madison
Looking for names that pair well with Madison? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Madison mean?
Madison is a unisex name of English origin meaning "Son of Maud." Madison originated as an English surname meaning "son of Maud" or "son of Matthew," with Maud being a medieval form of Matilda. The name's transformation into a popular girl's first name is often credited to the 1984 film Splash, in which Daryl Hannah's mermaid character chose the name Madison after seeing a Madison Avenue street sign.
How do you pronounce Madison?
Madison is pronounced MAD-ih-suhn. Common variations include Madisyn, Madyson, Maddison.
Is Madison a unisex name?
Yes, Madison is traditionally a unisex name. Popular nicknames include Maddie, Mads, Maddy.