Gweniver

Variation of Guinevere, Cornish

"white shadow, white wave"

Gweniver Origin and Meaning

The name Gweniver is a girl's name of Cornish origin meaning "white shadow, white wave".

Gweniver is a feminine name representing an alternative spelling of Guinevere, the legendary queen consort of King Arthur. The name derives from Welsh elements, combining 'gwen' meaning 'white, fair, blessed' with possibly 'hwyfar' meaning 'smooth, soft.' This creates a meaning along the lines of 'white phantom' or 'fair one.'

The Gweniver spelling gives the name a slightly different phonetic emphasis while maintaining its connection to Arthurian legend. Though less common than Guinevere, this variant carries the same associations with beauty, nobility, and Celtic heritage. The name evokes medieval romance and literature, appealing to parents drawn to names with legendary associations and historical depth. Despite its ancient origins, Gweniver has a timeless quality that works well in contemporary settings.