Madge

Madge is an English given name that originated as a medieval pet form of Margaret, itself derived through Latin and Greek Margarita from a Persian word meaning pearl. The diminutive arose through a common sound shift in Middle English whereby initial M-r was simplified, producing forms such as Madge alongside Meg and Midge. The name was in regular use in Britain from the medieval period onward and has long carried a folksy, rustic charm in English literature and culture. Related forms include Margaret, Margery, Peggy, and Meg.