Ælfflæd is an Old English female name from Anglo-Saxon England, composed of the elements ælf meaning "elf" and flæd, possibly meaning "beauty". The name thus signifies "elf-beauty" or "beautiful as an elf". It was borne by several notable women in early medieval England.Notable BearersOne of the most prominent bearers was Saint Ælfflæd of Whitby (654–714), an abbess of Whitby Abbey in Northumbria, the granddaughter of King Edwin of Northumbria. Another was Ælfflæd of Mercia, daughter of King Offa of Mercia and wife of King Æthelred I of Northumbria. Additionally, Ælfflæd was a wife of King Edward the Elder and mother of his sons Ælfweard and Edwin (though some sources suggest she may have been a concubine). Ælfflæd, daughter of King Edgar the Peaceful, was also a notable figure. Other historical figures include Ælfflæd of Mercia (II), daughter of Ceolwulf I of Mercia and wife of Wigmund of Mercia, and Ælfled of Bernicia, a saint and abbess.Linguistic and Cultural SignificanceThe name reflects the Old English naming tradition of combining descriptive elements. Ælfflæd is linguistically related to Æthelflæd (both containing the -flæd element) and to other names with the ælf element such as Ælfric. Its English equivalent, Elfleda (with variants), is a later learned revival.Meaning: Elf + beautyOrigin: Old English, Anglo-SaxonType: First nameUsage: Anglo-Saxon EnglandRelated names: Elfleda (English)