Gwenevere

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What does the baby name Gwenevere mean? Learn about what Gwenevere means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Gwenevere - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Gwenevere
G-W-E-N-E-V-E-R-E, is a 9-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Gwenevere
GWEN eh veer
Meaning of Gwenevere
King arthur's mythological queen, white, fair, smooth.
Origin of Gwenevere
The name 'Gwenevere' originates from the Welsh language. It is derived from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar, which is composed of two elements 'gwen', meaning 'fair' or 'white', and 'hwyfar', meaning 'smooth' or 'soft'. The name 'Gwenevere' is often associated with the legendary Queen Guinevere, who was the wife of King Arthur in Arthurian legends. The earliest known use of the name dates back to the 12th century, where it appeared in various medieval texts and Arthurian literature.
Arthurian Names
Welsh Names
Popularity of Gwenevere
Over time, the popularity of the name 'Gwenevere' has fluctuated. It experienced a notable spike in usage during the late 19th century, possibly due to the revival of interest in Arthurian legends and romanticized medieval literature. However, it gradually declined in popularity in the following decades. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in unique and vintage names, leading to a slight increase in the usage of 'Gwenevere'.
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Etymology of Gwenevere

The etymology of the name 'Gwenevere' can be traced back to its Welsh roots. The element 'gwen' signifies beauty, fairness, and purity, while 'hwyfar' conveys smoothness and softness. When combined, these elements create a name that embodies grace and elegance. The linguistic roots of the name reflect the poetic and lyrical nature of the Welsh language, adding to its allure.

Cultural Significance of Gwenevere

The name 'Gwenevere' holds particular cultural significance in Welsh and Arthurian traditions. In Welsh mythology, Gwenhwyfar was a symbol of beauty and femininity. In Arthurian legends, Queen Guinevere played a central role as King Arthur 's queen and the subject of many tales of love, betrayal, and chivalry. The name 'Gwenevere' evokes images of a strong and enchanting woman, deeply ingrained in the cultural consciousness.