Edwin
/ˈɛd.wɪn/
Edwin derives from the Old English Eadwine, composed of ead (“wealth,” “fortune”) and wine (“friend”). The meaning is “rich friend” or “friend of prosperity.”
Edwin was a significant name in Anglo-Saxon England. King Edwin of Northumbria (c. 586–633) was the first Christian king of that realm and was later venerated as a saint and martyr.
His conversion to Christianity by Paulinus of York in 627 was a landmark event in English religious history.
What the name Edwin means
Edwin ranked No. 382 in 2024 with 850 births. It peaked at No. 52 in 1919 with 3,450 births, a name popular in the early 20th century that has held a steady mid-chart presence ever since.
Astronaut Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin (1930–2024) is the name’s most famous recent bearer: the second person to walk on the moon. The full first name Edwin is less known than his nickname Buzz.
Two syllables — ED-win — are clean and solid. The name has a dependable, grounded character that has made it a consistent choice across many generations.
Parents who want a classic Old English name with royal and saintly heritage, distinct from the more common Edward, often choose Edwin. Its steady mid-chart presence means it never sounds either trendy or obsolete.
Related Old English ead-names include Edward, Edgar, Edmund, and Edric. The -wine (“friend”) element also appears in Erwin, Godwin, and Baldwin.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Edwin
Edwin - similar names
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