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Wendy Girl

Popularity: #727 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationWEN-dee / ˈwɛndi

English; Welsh

Meaning

Welsh: blessed; English: friend

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Wendy is believed to have originated from the English language, with its earliest recorded use attributed to the late 19th century. The name gained prominence through the character Wendy Darling in J.M. Barrie's play "Peter Pan," first performed in 1904. However, the etymology of Wendy is often linked to the Welsh name Gwendolyn, which combines the elements "gwen," meaning "fair" or "blessed," and "dolen," meaning "ring" or "loop." This connection suggests a lineage that emphasizes beauty and harmony, although the exact transition from Gwendolyn to Wendy remains somewhat unclear.

Historically, the name Wendy was popularized in the early 20th century, particularly after the success of Barrie's work. Prior to this, it was relatively uncommon and may have been used informally or as a diminutive form of other names. The character of Wendy Darling, who embodies innocence and nurturing qualities, contributed to the name's cultural resonance, making it a symbol of childhood and imagination. The play's enduring legacy in literature and theater has cemented Wendy's place in the cultural consciousness.

In addition to its literary significance, Wendy has been associated with themes of adventure and familial bonds, reflecting the character's role as a motherly figure to Peter Pan and the Lost Boys. This nurturing aspect has allowed the name to resonate across generations, often evoking a sense of warmth and care. While Wendy's historical roots may be traced back to earlier Welsh influences, its modern identity is largely shaped by its literary associations and the cultural narratives surrounding it.

Trend Summary

Wendy experienced peak popularity in the mid-20th century but has seen a decline in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Wendi
  • Wendie

International Variants

  • Wendi (Chinese)
  • Wendela (Dutch)

Famous people named Wendy

Wendy Williams is a television host and media personality best known for The Wendy Williams Show, Wendy: The Movie, and her radio career.

Wendy Malick is an actress best known for Just Shoot Me!, Hot in Cleveland, and Frasier.

Wendy Davis is an author and activist best known for her filibuster against abortion legislation in Texas, and her work on women's rights.

Wendy Carlos is a composer and electronic musician best known for Switched-On Bach, A Clockwork Orange, and The Well-Tempered Synthesizer.

Fictional characters named Wendy

Wendy Darling is a fictional character from the play and novel Peter Pan. She is a young girl who travels to Neverland and serves as a mother figure to Peter and the Lost Boys.

Wendy Testaburger is a fictional character from the animated television series South Park. She is a strong-willed and intelligent girl who often stands up for her beliefs and friends.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Wendy was first seen in the United States in 1918. Wendy has ranked as high as #65 nationally, which occurred in 1967, and has been most popular in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Wendy has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Wendy (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 37
23%
TX 22
13%
WA 15
9%
NY 13
8%
NC 12
7%
GA 11
7%
UT 9
5%
VA 8
5%
FL 7
4%
MO 7
4%
MD 6
4%
NJ 6
4%
CO 6
4%
AZ 5
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19185
19217
19239
192716
19285
19298
193017
19319
193211
193310
193410
193527
193667
193780
1938130
1939222
1940254
1941346
1942481
1943455
1944447
1945575
1946762
1947974
19481,517
19492,612
19503,030
19513,345
19523,556
19533,616
19544,415
19554,955
19564,861
19574,700
19584,484
19595,713
19606,871
19617,152
19626,979
19637,333
19648,077
196510,481
19669,515
196711,222
196810,710
196910,624
197011,100
197110,063
19728,529
19737,811
19747,564
19757,473
19766,464
19775,764
19784,918
19794,500
19804,141
19813,608
19822,821
19832,388
19842,024
19851,781
19861,517
19871,356
19881,292
19891,341
19901,397
19911,343
19921,269
19931,258
19941,131
19951,039
1996969
1997907
1998867
1999899
20001,004
20011,255
20021,209
20031,087
20041,039
2005901
2006930
2007864
2008688
2009600
2010498
2011419
2012359
2013395
2014359
2015288
2016328
2017230
2018273
2019222
2020196
2021196
2022192
2023176
2024224