Wendy

Overview

Meaning Now

• A female given name, famously popularized by J.M. Barrie in his 1904 play 'Peter Pan'.

Journey

While 'Wendy' existed as a rare diminutive for Gwendolyn in the 19th century, it was almost entirely unknown until J.M. Barrie introduced the character Wendy Moira Angela Darling in his play 'Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up'. The name was inspired by Margaret Henley, the young daughter of his friend W.E. Henley, who called Barrie her 'fwendy' (a childish pronunciation of 'friendy').

Evolution

1. 19th century

   Gwendolyn

   “Traditional Welsh personal name.”

   Used as a pet name or diminutive.

2. 1904

   Wendy

   “Character name in Peter Pan.”

   Barrie created the name based on the pronunciation of 'fwendy' by a child he knew.

Connections

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