Wendy: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: we-hnde-e
Origin: United Kingdom
gender-female

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Apr 14, 2025 · 2 mins read
Region Origin: Europe
Meaning: Blessed

The name Wendy is a feminine name of English origin, derived from the Welsh name Gwendolyn. The name comprises two elements: "gwen," meaning 'white' or 'blessed,' and "dolen," meaning 'ring' or 'loop'. Wendy is also associated with the word "friend," as it was a nickname given to the author J.M. Barrie by a young friend. The name Wendy gained popularity after J.M. Barrie used it as a character in his 1904 play "Peter Pan". The character, Wendy Darling, was inspired by Margaret Henley, a child who called Barrie "my friendy" due to her inability to pronounce the word correctly. The name Wendy has since become a popular name in English-speaking countries, with its popularity attributed to the play "Peter Pan".

Wendy Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Wendy is currently #14239 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Girl: Wendy is currently #8051 on Kiindred Girl Names
gender-male Overall Unique: Wendy is currently #7470 on Kiindred Unique Names
gender-female Girl Unique: Wendy is currently #4228 on Kiindred Girl Unique Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Source: Social Security Administration

Famous People Named Wendy

This section lists notable individuals and public figures named Wendy, showcasing their achievements and contributions in various fields.

  • Wendy Williams: Wendy Williams is an American television host, businesswoman, media personality, and author known for her talk show "The Wendy Williams Show."
  • Wendy Carlos: Wendy Carlos is an American composer and electronic musician known for her pioneering work in electronic music and her albums "Switched-On Bach" and the soundtrack for "A Clockwork Orange."
  • Wendy Hiller: Wendy Hiller was an English actress known for her stage work and roles in films like "Pygmalion," "Separate Tables," and "A Man for All Seasons." She passed away in 2003.
  • Wendy Crewson: Wendy Crewson is a Canadian actress known for her roles in "Air Force One," "The Santa Clause" film series, and "Revenge."
  • Wendy Richard: Wendy Richard was an English actress known for her roles in the television series "Are You Being Served?" and "EastEnders."

 

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Wikipedia, NSW Births Deaths and Marriages, QLD Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages, WA Registry of Births, SA Registry of Births, VIC Registry of Births, Social Security Administration

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