Winifred

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

Winifred - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Winifred
W-I-N-I-F-R-E-D, is a 8-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Winifred
WIN-i-frid
WIN ih fred
Meaning of Winifred
Peaceful friend, peace friend, who makes friends with peace, friend of peace (f).
Origin of Winifred
The name 'Winifred' has roots in Old English and is derived from the elements 'win' meaning 'joy' or 'friend' and 'frid' meaning 'peace'. Its earliest known use dates back to the 9th century, making it a name with a long-standing history.
British Names
Celtic Names
English Names
Gaelic Names
German Names
Welsh Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Winifred
Fred
Freddy
Win
Wina
Winafred
Winefride
Winfreda
Winifrede
Winifride
Winifryde
Winne
Winni
Winnie
Winny
Wyn
Wynn
Popularity of Winifred
Over time, the popularity of the name 'Winifred' has experienced fluctuations. In the early 20th century, it reached its peak, ranking among the top 100 names for girls in the United States. However, in recent decades, its usage has declined, making it a less common choice for parents. Despite this, the name has seen notable spikes in popularity due to cultural influences and media representation.
Winifred currently has 29 likes, and is in the top 9% of liked girl's names. The name Carlene is slightly more popular than Winifred.

Etymology of Winifred

Delving into the linguistic roots of the name, we find that 'Winifred' originates from Old English. The element 'win' signifies joy or friend, while 'frid' represents peace. This combination creates a name that embodies the essence of a joyful and peaceful presence.

Cultural Significance of Winifred

'Winifred' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In Welsh mythology, the name is associated with Saint 'Winifred', a legendary Welsh martyr. She is revered for her piety and the miracles attributed to her. Additionally, in Irish folklore, 'Winifred' is linked to the sacred site of St. 'Winifred 's Well, known for its healing properties. These cultural associations add depth and meaning to the name.