Meaning and history
Gwenhwyfar is the Welsh form of Guinevere, the queen associated with King Arthur in medieval legend. It combines Welsh gwen, “white,” “fair,” or “blessed,” with hwyfar, an element of uncertain meaning, so complete translations should be treated cautiously. Through French and English transmission, Gwenhwyfar developed into Guinevere and ultimately influenced Jennifer. Its significance is chiefly mythological and literary, especially in accounts of Guinevere’s relationship with Lancelot. Reliable modern bearers of the traditional Welsh spelling are uncommon.