Magdalene

Magdalene is a form associated with Mary Magdalene in the New Testament, identifying her connection with Magdala. The place name is linked with a word for tower, but the personal designation is more directly understood as “woman from Magdala” than simply “high tower.” That distinction preserves the geographic history.

Magdalen and Magdalena are related forms to compare, with different endings and language traditions. Magdalene itself has more than one pronunciation in English and other languages, so a family’s intended form is worth introducing. The biblical association provides ample context without attaching unsupported judgments about Mary Magdalene’s life or character to the name.