American Meaning: The name Evelyn is an American baby name. In American the meaning of the name Evelyn is: Life. French Meaning: The name Evelyn is a French baby name. In French the meaning of the name Evelyn is: From a surname derived from the Old French 'aveline' meaning hazelnut.Famous bearer: Evelyn Waugh.he name Evelyn is an American baby name. In American the meaning of the name Evelyn is: Life. French Meaning: The name Evelyn is a French baby name. In French the meaning of the name Evelyn is: From a surname derived from the Old French 'aveline' meaning hazelnut. Famous bearer: Evelyn Waugh.