Jennifer is a feminine given name of Welsh origin. Its meaning and history are intricately linked to the Welsh name "Gwenhwyfar", which was the name of Queen Guinevere in Arthurian legend. In medieval times, Gwenhwyfar was often shortened to "Gwenhwy" or even "Geni". Over time, this evolved into the form Jennifer.
The name Jennifer is believed to have been first used as a given name in England during the 17th century. However, it did not gain significant popularity until much later. It began to rise in usage during the mid-20th century and by the late 1960s had become one of the most popular names for girls in several English-speaking countries.
Today, Jennifer remains a widely used name around the world. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, it was among the top ten most popular girl's names in the country for much of the 1970s and 1980s. While its popularity has since declined somewhat, Jennifer continues to be a well-known and beloved name.
In terms of meaning, Jennifer is generally interpreted as "fair lord" or "white wave". These translations reflect the Welsh roots of the name, with "geni" meaning "wave" and "fair" or "gwyn" meaning "white" or "blessed".
Overall, Jennifer is a name with a rich history and a strong connection to Welsh culture. Its popularity over the years reflects its timeless appeal as a beautiful and meaningful given name for girls.
"Jenniffer has had exactly seven babies born each year from 1973."