Gwendolyn is a name of Welsh origin, derived from the elements "gwen" meaning white or fair, and "dolen" meaning ring or circle. This name was popularized during the Middle Ages by the character Gwendoline in the Arthurian legend of Sir Geraint and Enid. In English literature, Gwendolyn is also associated with the works of George Eliot, who used it as a character name in her novel "Daniel Deronda." The name Gwendolyn typically has four syllables and is pronounced /ˈɡwɛndəlɪn/. It reached peak popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but remains less common today. Some notable individuals with this name include British actress Gwendoline Christie, known for her role as Brienne of Tarth in the HBO series "Game of Thrones," and American jazz singer Gwendolyn Brooks, who was the first African-American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Overall, Gwendolyn is a name with a rich history and cultural significance, offering a unique blend of elegance and strength.
The name Gwendloyn appears to have seen its peak popularity between the years of 1950 and 1962, with a noticeable decline thereafter.