"supplanter, one who grasps the heel"
Jacqueline
Pronunciation: [ j-AKW-uhl-ihn ]
Forever associated with grace and American elegance
Meaning & Origin
"may God protect"
The Story of Jacqueline
Jacqueline is the French feminine form of Jacques, which is the French equivalent of James and Jacob — both derived from the Hebrew Ya'aqov, meaning 'supplanter' or 'one who follows at the heel.' The name entered the English-speaking world with Norman French influence after 1066 and was elevated to iconic status by Jacqueline Kennedy, who made it synonymous with grace and style in the 20th century.
Jacqueline peaked in the United States in the 1960s, propelled by the cultural phenomenon of Jackie Kennedy. The First Lady's elegance, fashion sense, and tragic widowhood made her name aspirational for a generation of parents. The name has since softened from peak popularity while retaining its prestige.
In French culture, Jacqueline carries centuries of aristocratic heritage. The name's most enduring cultural imprint comes from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who redefined what it meant to be a First Lady and became a global fashion icon. Her influence on the name cannot be overstated.
Fun Facts
- Jacqueline Kennedy commissioned the complete restoration of the White House and launched a historic televised tour in 1962
- Jacqueline du Pré was considered one of the greatest cellists of the 20th century before MS ended her career at 28
- The name entered French use in the 13th century as a feminine form of Jacques
Jacqueline in Other Languages
Famous People Named Jacqueline
Jacqueline du Pré
Musician
1945
British cellist regarded as one of the greatest classical musicians of the 20th century, whose career was cut short by m...
British cellist regarded as one of the greatest classical musicians of the 20th century, whose career was cut short by multiple sclerosis
Jacqueline Wilson
Writer
1945
Beloved British children's author known for The Story of Tracy Beaker and dozens of other books that honestly portray ch...
Beloved British children's author known for The Story of Tracy Beaker and dozens of other books that honestly portray childhood challenges
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Other
1929
First Lady of the United States, celebrated for her elegance, cultural initiatives in the White House, and grace followi...
First Lady of the United States, celebrated for her elegance, cultural initiatives in the White House, and grace following President Kennedy's assassination
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 3
- Popularity Rank
- #589
- Total SSA Count
- 510
- Cultural Origins
- French English American Belgian
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Formal
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- High
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Pairs Well With
Sibling Names
Also a Boy Name
Jacqueline is also used as a boy name, ranked #38829.
View Jacqueline as a boy name →Similar Names
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Frequently Asked Questions About Jacqueline
What does the name Jacqueline mean?
What is the origin of the name Jacqueline?
Is Jacqueline a boy or girl name?
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What are common nicknames for Jacqueline?
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About the Name Jacqueline
Jacqueline is a girl name with French, English, American, and Belgian origins . The name means "supplanter, one who grasps the heel" in Hebrew (via French Jacques) .
Is Jacqueline a boy or girl name? Jacqueline is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it ranks #589 in popularity. As a boy name, it ranks #38,829. Jacqueline is more commonly used as a girl name.
Jacqueline is currently ranked #589 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Jacqueline has 3 syllables and is pronounced j-AKW-uhl-ihn, making it distinctive and memorable.
Common nicknames for Jacqueline include Jackie, Jack, Jacqui, and Jax. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Jacqueline include Jacqueli, Jacquelyn, Jacquely . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.