A 1950s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Gwendolyn since 1880
Babies named Gwendolyn per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 45 |
| 1890s | 205 |
| 1900s | 775 |
| 1910s | 4,331 |
| 1920s | 8,658 |
| 1930s | 10,108 |
| 1940s | 18,344 |
| 1950s | 31,945 |
| 1960s | 18,635 |
| 1970s | 7,914 |
| 1980s | 3,838 |
| 1990s | 2,983 |
| 2000s | 4,548 |
| 2010s | 7,174 |
| 2020s | 4,882 |
Meaning & origin
Gwendolyn has a long and steady presence in U.S. naming records, first recorded in 1880. It reached its peak popularity in 1953, when it was a top-tier choice. After a decline, the name has been rising again since 1994, reflecting a revival of vintage names. In 2025, it ranked 360 with a 1-in-1,895 incidence. The name is especially popular in states like Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. Gwendolyn's enduring appeal lies in its melodic sound and rich Welsh heritage, making it a distinctive yet familiar choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth.
Gwendolyn is a Welsh name, likely derived from 'gwen' meaning 'white, fair, blessed' and 'dolen' meaning 'ring, loop'. It first appeared in the 19th century, possibly as a variant of Gwendolen, a name from Welsh legend and literature. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the Victorian era.
Where Gwendolyn is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Gwen, Wendy, Lyn, Lynnie
Variants: Gwendolen, Gwendoline, Gwendolynn
Sibling names for Gwendolyn
Names that share Gwendolyn's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Genevieve, Guinevere, Rowan, Morgan, Vivian, Carolyn, Cambria, Joycelyn, Lynette, Lynnette, Marilynn, Teressa, Avalon, Carlena, Darlyn, Merideth, Merlyn, Ardyth, Arnetha, Dorenda, Geraldene, Geraldyne, Jackquline, Jerolyn, Jodene, Joelyn, Lizzeth, Marillyn, Marilynne, Meredyth, Merline, Merrilyn, Priscella, Sebrena, Verlean, Wynette, Beverlyn, Genecis, Geneveive, Geralynn, Guyla, Gwenetta, Gwenevere, Marynell, Nelwyn, Reannon, Rozalynn, Morgaine, Wyvonne, Anwyn, Athelene, Brendolyn, Claudeen, Darlinda, Lorrinda, Marilyne, Marshella, Winefred
Brothers: Gareth, Griffin, Owen, Llewellyn, Dylan, Glendon, Mervyn, Selvin, Sherwin, Vaughan, Darrold, Garnell, Merwyn, Rodric, Ronnald, Thurmon, Clevon, Gregrey, Lyndel, Randolf, Dennard, Garlon, Gresham, Myrick, Regginald
Names like Gwendolyn
Names whose popularity has moved with Gwendolyn's over the last 50 years.
