Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Goldwin

      Origin

      Germanic Origin, Used in English-speaking Countries

      Meaning

      Friend of Gold or Golden Friend

      Variations

      Goldwinn, Goodwin, Godwine
      The name Goldwin is of Germanic origin and translates to friend of gold or golden friend. It is derived from the elements gold, which signifies wealth and prosperity, and win, meaning friend or companion. This name encapsulates a sense of camaraderie and richness, reflecting positive qualities in interpersonal relationships. Goldwin is primarily found in English-speaking countries and can be used as both a first name and surname.

      Historically, the name Goldwin can be traced back to medieval Germany, where names often reflected personal attributes, social status, or qualities valued within the community. The importance placed on gold as a symbol of wealth and the characteristic of being a loyal friend contributed to the name's appeal. It was relatively uncommon but gained some notable prominence in the 19th century, aligning with a trend of using names that convey affluence and goodwill. Notable figures such as Goldwin Smith, a Canadian historian and journalist in the 19th century, helped to elevate the name's profile during this period.

      In modern times, Goldwin remains a rare but distinct choice for parents looking for a name that embodies warmth and affluence. While it is not widely popular, it has seen a resurgence in interest due to its unique connotation and historical significance. In contemporary culture, the name is sometimes associated with vintage charm, and it appeals to those who appreciate names with rich backgrounds. Today, individuals named Goldwin may be found in various fields, contributing to both public life and the arts, while serving as a reminder of the name's historical lineage and meaning.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Goldwin.
      Irene

      Irene

      This is the most common name of those married to a Goldwin.
      Goldwin

      Goldwin

      This is the most common name for a child of a Goldwin.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1893 is when there were the most people born with the first name Goldwin.

      Explore the origins of another name.