Alwyn is a name of Welsh origin, derived from the ancient Welsh name Elwyn or Eiluned. It is composed of two elements: el, meaning "fair" or "radiant," and gwyn, meaning "blonde" or "white." Therefore, Alwyn translates to "fair blonde" or "radiant white."
The name Alwyn has a rich history in Wales. It was the name of several figures from Welsh literature and folklore, including Elwyn the Fair in the Fourth Branch of the Mabinogi, a collection of medieval Welsh tales. This ancient origin gives the name Alwyn an air of mystique and tradition.
Alwyn is not particularly common today, but it has appeared occasionally throughout history. In more recent times, notable individuals with this name include Alwyn Turner, a British historian and journalist, and Alwyn Hamilton, a British author best known for her novel "The Rebel of the Sands."
In terms of popularity, Alwyn is considered an uncommon name. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, it has never ranked among the top 1000 names for boys since records began in 1880. This rarity may contribute to its distinctive appeal and unique charm.
Overall, Alwyn is a name steeped in Welsh history and mythology, with a meaning that evokes light and beauty. Its uncommon usage today makes it a choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
The name Alwyn experienced notable popularity between 1915 and 1922 with consistently high birth numbers, peaking at 21 births in 1918. However, its usage significantly declined afterwards, fluctuating between 5 to 14 births per year until the late 1960s. Since then, it has rarely been given more than 10 times annually, with a notable spike to 28 births in 2021 and 21 births in 2022, suggesting a potential resurgence of interest in this name. Overall, there have been a total of 702 births named Alwyn from 1913 to 2023.