Godwin is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English elements 'god' meaning 'good' and 'wine' referring to 'friend'. It was originally a surname, but has since become used as a given name as well. The name Godwin is associated with notable figures in history such as Godwin, Earl of Wessex (died 1053), who was a powerful nobleman during the reign of Edward the Confessor and played a significant role in the politics of late Anglo-Saxon England. Today, Godwin remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Godwin has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century, with a notable surge beginning around the year 2000. The highest number of births recorded in any given year was 22, which occurred most recently in 2018 and 2023. Despite fluctuations in popularity, the name Godwin has maintained consistent presence, with at least one birth recorded every year since 1950.