US Popularity Rank: 780

Origin: Welsh

Meaning: Fair bow; blessed ring

Gwendolyn is a feminine name of Welsh origin, meaning “fair bow” or “blessed ring.” It is derived from the Welsh gwen meaning “white,” “blessed,” or “fair,” and dolen, which translates to “bow” or “ring.” Gwendolyn is a charming name with a mystical side, with some legends saying that Merlin the Magician had a wife of the same name. It also has many enchanting iterations, including Gwen, Gwenyth, and Wynne. This name is most notable shared with the first African-American to win a Pulitzer for poetry, Gwendolyn Brookes, who will undoubtedly become a source of inspiration for baby.