HOME > Wendy Origin of Name
Introduction
Choosing a name for your child is a big decision. You want a name that is unique, meaningful, and has a good history. One name that fits all these criteria is Wendy. In this article, we will explore the origin and meaning of the name Wendy, as well as its popularity and famous people who bear the name.
Origin and Meaning of the Name Wendy
The name Wendy is of English origin and was first used as a given name in the late 19th century. It was popularized by J.M. Barrie in his play Peter Pan, where Wendy is the name of the heroine. However, Barrie did not invent the name. He took it from a friend, Margaret Henley, who used it as a nickname for her daughter. Margaret's daughter died at a young age, and Barrie later used the name in his play as a tribute to her.
Popularity of the Name Wendy
The name Wendy was not popular before the publication of Peter Pan. However, after the play's success, the name became increasingly popular in the United States and the United Kingdom. It reached its peak in the 1960s and 1970s and has since declined in popularity. According to the Social Security Administration, Wendy was the 938th most popular name for girls in 2020.
Famous People Named Wendy
There are many famous people who bear the name Wendy. Some of them include: 1. Wendy Williams - American television host and media personality 2. Wendy Davis - American politician and former state senator 3. Wendy O. Williams - American singer and songwriter 4. Wendy Carlos - American composer and electronic musician 5. Wendy Makkena - American actress 6. Wendy Crewson - Canadian actress 7. Wendy Raquel Robinson - American actress 8. Wendy Richard - English actress 9. Wendy Wasserstein - American playwright 10. Wendy Hiller - English actress
Conclusion
In conclusion, the name Wendy has a fascinating origin and history. It was popularized by J.M. Barrie in his play Peter Pan, but he took it from a friend who used it as a nickname for her daughter. The name became increasingly popular in the 20th century but has since declined in popularity. Despite this, there are many famous people who bear the name Wendy, and it remains a unique and meaningful name for a child.
