Welsh girl name
Gwenllian Name Meaning, Origin & Pronunciation
Gwenllian means fair linen. From the Welsh gwen (white, blessed) and probably llian (linen)
Gwenllian is an old Welsh name carried by several women in medieval Wales. Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd, who died in 1136, led an army against the Normans in Kidwelly, and the daughter of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, Gwenllian of Wales, was born in 1282 and spent her life in an English convent. It remains uncommon, though the sound and strong history make it appealing. The ll is pronounced with the Welsh breathy sound and the name shortens easily to Gwen.
Computer-generated voice, as a guide to pronunciation.
Variants of Gwenllian
GwenlianGwenllyanGwen
Well-known people named Gwenllian
Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd.
Gwenllian popularity: Ireland vs the US
Gwenllian does not appear in the official Irish or US baby name rankings, which only list names given to a handful of babies a year. It is a rare choice in both countries.
Data: US Social Security Administration (public domain) and Central Statistics Office, Ireland (CC BY 4.0). Irish accented spellings (such as Síle) are only recorded from 2018, so earlier years combine spellings.
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Gwenllian mean?
Gwenllian means "fair linen". From the Welsh gwen (white, blessed) and probably llian (linen).
How do you pronounce Gwenllian?
Gwenllian is pronounced gwen-HLEE-an.
What is the origin of Gwenllian?
Gwenllian is of Welsh origin. From the Welsh gwen (white, blessed) and probably llian (linen).