Evangeline

updated Sept 2015

Evangeline ~ Messenger of Good News ~ English, Greek

Statue of Evangeline,

Grand Pré National Historic Site, Nova Scotia

Evangeline is ranked at #276 for 2014, which is the highest ever in recorded US history. While it was used with some frequency in the 1800s, we are seeing Evangeline make a comeback. I used to be surprised at the growing popularity of this name. Now I feel a little silly for ever wondering why it's being used today. Like many of you, I imagine, I have a name crush on Evangeline.

History & Meaning
Evangeline is derived from the Greek for "good" and "news". While it sounds like the type of name that has been around for ages, it was most likely invented by the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in 1847, who wrote a romantic-but-tragic epic poem entitled Evangeline. The poem tells the story of a young Canadian woman who spends years searching for her finacé after being separated from him during the Great Upheaval. In the end, Evangeline is only reunited with her love after she has found refuge in America and is working as a Sister of Mercy. He has been sickened by an epidemic and dies in her arms. The story of Evangeline was popular among both Americans and the Acadians of Nova Scotia.

Of course, the name is closely linked to a much older word, evangelism, which has its roots in the Greek writings of the New Testament of the Bible. While evangelism doesn't always carry the best connotations, we can tell from the meaning of the word that it was meant to be nothing but positive. In fact, it's close to a virtue name for its meaning and positive connotations.

A Hidden Angel
I imagine some parents may choose the name based on its meaning, and the good news their daughter brought when when they found out they were expecting. But I also wonder how many people love this name for the following reason alone: Evangeline literally contains an angel inside. Yes, we get the word angel from the same greek roots, particularly the "messenger" portion. It's a heavenly name with a beautiful meaning.

All About Eva
After all this yammering on, I haven't even mentioned the name Eva yet! Eva is definitely a name that stands on its own. It's much more popular that way, hitting the charts at #91. However, for those looking for a name that feels more "full" or more unique, Evangeline is fitting the bill quite nicely. Eva is a natural way to shorten the name, but I also want to clarify that the full name Eva has its own roots and meaning.

In fact, all of the variations of Evangeline are hitting a sweet spot with English-speaking countries these days. And by "English-speaking countries" I also mean me.

Variations

• Eva
• Evangel
• Evangelia
• Evangelica
• Evangelique
• Evangelista
• Eve
• Evie
• Vangie

Pronunciation
Ee-VAN-jel-een

Places
Evangeline, Louisiana
Evangeline, New Brunswick, Canada

People
Evangeline Lilly, actress known for her role on Lost