Guinevere

Guinevere is a female first name and represents a variant of the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar. In English translation, it means 'the white fairy,' 'the white spirit,' or 'the bright phantom.'

What does the name Guinevere mean?

The name Guinevere is a derivative of the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar and can be translated into English as 'the white fairy,' 'the white spirit,' or 'the bright phantom.' It consists of the Old Welsh words gwen ('white, fair, holy') and hwyfar ('smooth, soft'). Guinevere is primarily known through the Arthurian legend, but it is currently quite rare. However, it has gained popularity in recent years, similar to other Irish-Celtic names. The name Jennifer, an internationally common variant, is also derived from Guinevere. The character of Guinevere plays a central role in the Celtic legend as the wife of King Arthur and the lover of Lancelot. Her story also includes the seduction by Mordred before the decisive battle of Camlann. Various forms of the name include Gwenhyfar, Gwenifer, Gwenevere, and Guenevere. Other variations include Jenifer, Jenifa, Jenifre, Jeniffer, Jennyfer, Jenniver, Jennipher, Jennifa, Jenniffer, and Jennefer.

Where does the name Guinevere come from?

The name Guinevere has its origin in the Celtic or Old Welsh language and refers to the wife of the legendary king Arthur. It consists of two parts: the first element, gwyn or gwen, means 'beautiful,' 'white,' 'fair,' 'bright,' 'light,' 'holy,' or 'blessed.' The second part, hwyfar, can be translated as 'smooth' and 'soft,' but also has meanings such as 'the phantom,' 'the spirit,' or 'the fairy.' The etymology includes Old French and English influences.

How do you pronounce Guinevere?

Gwi-ne-vier

When is the name day of Guinevere?

The name day of Guinevere is celebrated on May 30.

Popularity

In Germany, Guinevere is a rather rare first name. In 2022, it ranked 5,539th on the list of the most common female baby names. The name achieved its best ranking in 2008, when it placed 1,636th. In the last ten years, Guinevere has been given as a first name about 30 times, placing it 5,239th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 6,302nd.

Nicknames & pet names

Guini

Famous people

• Guinevere (wife of the legendary king Arthur)
• Guinevere Kauffmann (astrophysicist)
• Guinevere Turner (American actress)
• Guinevere van Seenus (American model)