Jennifer
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What does the baby name Jennifer mean? Learn about what Jennifer means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Jennifer - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Jennifer
- J-E-N-N-I-F-E-R, is a 8-letter female given name.
- Pronunciation of Jennifer
- JEN-i-fər
- JEN iff er
- Meaning of Jennifer
- White wave, fair phantom or white wave, woman of white magic, white phantom.
- Origin of Jennifer
- The name 'Jennifer' is believed to have originated from the Welsh name 'Gwenhwyfar', which means 'white phantom' or 'fair one'. Over time, this name evolved into the Cornish form 'Guinevere', famously associated with the legendary Queen Guinevere of Arthurian tales. Eventually, the name made its way into English as 'Jennifer', which gained popularity in the 20th century.
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- Classic Names
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- English Names
- Literary Names
- Old English Names
- Welsh Names
- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Jennifer
- Gaenna
- Gaynor
- Genevieve
- Genna
- Gennie
- Ginevra
- Guenever
- Guenna
- Guennola
- Guinevere
- Guinna
- Gwen
- Gweniver
- Gwennie
- Gwennola
- Gwennora
- Gwennore
- Gwyn
- Janifer
- Jen
- Jenilee
- Jenna
- Jennalyn
- Jennelle
- Jennica
- Jenniver
- Jenny
- Vefa
- Wendie
- Wendy
- Win
- Winne
- Winny
- Popularity of Jennifer
- 'Jennifer' experienced a significant surge in popularity during the mid-20th century. In fact, it was the most popular name for baby girls in the United States from the 1970s through the 1990s. This popularity can be attributed to the influence of various cultural phenomena, such as the character 'Jennifer' Hart in the popular TV show 'Hart to Hart' and the rise of celebrities named 'Jennifer', like 'Jennifer' Aniston and 'Jennifer' Lopez.
- Jennifer currently has 4394 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked girl's names. The name Rebecca is slightly more popular than Jennifer.
Etymology of Jennifer
The etymology of 'Jennifer' is closely linked to the name Guinevere. Guinevere is believed to have originated from the Old Celtic name 'Gwenhwyfar', which combines the elements 'gwen', meaning 'white' or 'fair', and 'hwyfar', meaning 'smooth' or 'soft'. This combination beautifully encapsulates the grace and elegance often associated with individuals named 'Jennifer'.
Cultural Significance of Jennifer
While the name 'Jennifer' does not possess any specific cultural or religious significance, it has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. It has been featured in numerous books, movies, and songs, often representing characters who are strong, independent, and compassionate. The name 'Jennifer' has become a symbol of femininity and resilience, resonating with individuals of all backgrounds.