Anwen is a feminine given name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Old Welsh word "anwyn," which means "fair" or "beautiful." The name Anwen is often associated with the Welsh goddess Anu, who was believed to be the mother of all life and the source of inspiration for poets.
The earliest recorded instance of the name Anwen comes from the 12th century Welsh poem "Culhwch and Olwen," in which Olwen's parents are named Caw and Anwn. However, it is unclear whether this name was used as a given name during this time period or if it was simply a poetic convention.
Throughout history, the name Anwen has been used by several notable figures in Welsh literature and history. For example, Anwen Kenneith was a 19th-century Welsh poet who wrote under the pen name "Seren Cymru," which means "Star of Wales." Additionally, Anwen Tomos is a modern Welsh actress known for her roles in television shows such as " Pobol y Cwm" and "Gwaed Mewn Dim."
Today, Anwen remains a popular given name in Wales and among Welsh speakers around the world. It is often spelled in various ways, including Anwen, Anwn, Annawen, and Annwyn. Despite its varied spellings, however, the name retains its original meaning of "fair" or "beautiful.
The name Anwen experienced its peak popularity between 2004 and 2007 with a high of 18 births in 2004, followed by consistently strong numbers until 2008. However, from 2010 onwards, the number of babies named Anwen decreased significantly, with only one year (2015) showing more than ten births. The most recent years available (2022 and 2023) saw a slight increase again, but overall, the popularity of the name Anwen has been declining since its peak in the early to mid-2000s.