Guinevere
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What does the baby name Guinevere mean? Learn about what Guinevere means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Guinevere - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Guinevere
- G-U-I-N-E-V-E-R-E, is a 9-letter female given name.
- Pronunciation of Guinevere
- GWIN-ə-vir
- GWEN ih veer
- Meaning of Guinevere
- White wave, white ghost, phantom, woman of white magic, white, fair, smooth.
- Origin of Guinevere
- The name 'Guinevere' finds its roots in Arthurian legend, a collection of stories and myths surrounding King Arthur and his knights. 'Guinevere', often portrayed as King Arthur 's queen, has captivated audiences for centuries with her beauty, grace, and tragic love affair with Sir Lancelot. The earliest known use of the name 'Guinevere' can be traced back to medieval literature, particularly the works of Geoffrey of Monmouth and Chrétien de Troyes.
- Anglo Saxon Names
- Arthurian Names
- Celtic Names
- Mythological Names
- Welsh Names
- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Guinevere
- Gaenna
- Gaynor
- Genevieve
- Genna
- Gennie
- Ginevra
- Guenever
- Guenna
- Guennola
- Guinna
- Gwen
- Gweniver
- Gwennie
- Gwennola
- Gwennora
- Gwennore
- Gwyn
- Janifer
- Jen
- Jenilee
- Jenna
- Jennalyn
- Jennelle
- Jennica
- Jennifer
- Jenniver
- Jenny
- Vefa
- Wendie
- Wendy
- Win
- Winne
- Winny
- Popularity of Guinevere
- Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Guinevere' has had its ebbs and flows. While never reaching the heights of names like Elizabeth or Mary, 'Guinevere' has experienced notable spikes in usage during certain periods. In the late 19th century, the name saw a surge in popularity, possibly due to the revival of interest in Arthurian legends during the Victorian era. However, in recent decades, the name has become less common, with parents opting for more modern or unique names for their children.
- Guinevere currently has 110 likes, and is in the top 6% of liked girl's names. The name Sylvie is slightly more popular than Guinevere.
Etymology of Guinevere
The etymology of the name 'Guinevere' is a subject of much debate among scholars. Some believe it to be of Welsh origin, derived from the elements 'gwen', meaning 'white' or 'fair', and 'hwyfar', meaning 'smooth' or 'soft'. This interpretation aligns with 'Guinevere 's portrayal as a beautiful and gentle queen. Others argue that the name has Celtic roots, with 'gwen' meaning 'woman' and 'sebara' meaning 'fierce' or 'vigorous'. This interpretation highlights 'Guinevere 's complex character, torn between her love for King Arthur and her forbidden affair with Sir Lancelot.
Cultural Significance of Guinevere
The name 'Guinevere' holds significant cultural importance, particularly in Western literature and art. As a central figure in Arthurian legends, 'Guinevere' embodies the ideals of courtly love, loyalty, and betrayal. Her story has been retold countless times in various forms, from medieval romances to modern adaptations. 'Guinevere 's character serves as a symbol of femininity, beauty, and the complexities of human relationships.