The extremely rare and semi-mythical name of an Anglo-Saxon heroine.
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Origin: |
From Old English name Godgyfu, composed of the elements god and gyfu "gift" -- "god's gift". Godiva is the Latinised form of the name. |
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Usage: |
The Anglo-Saxon name Godgyfu / Godgifu is found on some of the few noble women women who are listed in surviving texts. It was pronounced god-yee-vuh (the stress usually falling on the first syllable, the 'f' becoming 'v' when between two vowels and the 'g' becoming a 'y' when followed by a front vowel). The name was often found latinised as Godiva on official documents The most famous bearer of the name is Lady Godiva (Countess Godifu), wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia who is said to have famously rode "naked" through the streets of Coventry to save the people from harsh taxation. Historians believe that "naked" refers not to her riding with no clothes on but taking off her finery, uncovering her hair, and wearing a simple shift -- removing all trace of her aristocracy. |
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Famous Bearers: |
There are a few notable Anglo-Saxon noble women recorded with the name Godifu/Godiva: * Princess Godgifu (1004-c1047) was the daughter of King Aethelred and Queen Emma, sister to King Edward the Confessor. * Godgifu was a wife of Siward, Earl of Northumbria. Tennyson wrote a poem titled "Godiva" after the countess of Mercia. There is also a brand of chocolate that bears her name and image. |
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Variants: |
Godgyfu , Godgifu, Goda, Godife, Godgyue (Anglo-Saxon) |
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Pronunciation: |
god-Ī-və (UK) god-eev-a (France, Spain) [key] |
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Possible diminutives: |
Diva, Gida, Ida, Iva, Ivy, Viva, Vy |
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Sibling Names: |
Cynewyn Hawise Merewen Nerienda Endelyn Melangell |
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Name Lists: |
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