All about the name

Morgaine

Female

« Morgaine is a Welsh name meaning "sea-born" or "circle of the sea," with roots in ancient Celtic culture. »

#20689 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

The name Morgaine is of Welsh origin and has a rich history and meaning behind it. It is derived from the ancient Welsh word "Morgawse," which means "sea-born" or "circle of the sea." This name was popular among the early Celtic peoples who inhabited Wales and other parts of Britain. In Arthurian legend, Morgaine is most famously known as the half-sister of King Arthur Pendragon. She was the daughter of King Gorlois of Cornwall and his second wife, Ygraine. When Uther Pendragon sought to marry Ygraine, he asked Merlin's help in defeating Gorlois. Merlin agreed but on one condition: that Uther would allow him to raise Morgaine as his own daughter. Uther agreed, and so Morgaine was raised by Merlin. As she grew older, Morgaine became a powerful sorceress and warrior in her own right. She eventually married King Uriens of Gore and had a son with him named Yvain. However, their marriage was not happy, and Morgaine left Uriens to become the lover of Arthur's advisor, Sir Lancelot. In the end, Morgaine played a crucial role in the downfall of Camelot. After Arthur's death at the Battle of Camlann, she took his wounded body to the isle of Avalon, where he was laid to rest and from whence he would one day return to lead Britain once more. Today, the name Morgaine continues to be associated with strength, power, and magic. It remains a popular choice among parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughters.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Morgaine since 1880

Total births
175
Total since 1880
Peak year
1994
14 births
in 2009
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years