Edwina is a feminine given name, serving as the female form of Edwin. The name Edwin itself originates from Old English elements: ead meaning "wealth, fortune" and wine meaning "friend," thus carrying the sense of "rich friend." Edwina emerged as a counterpart to Edwin, particularly gaining popularity in the 19th century during the Victorian revival of medieval names. Etymology and History While the root name Edwin was borne by a 7th-century Northumbrian king later regarded as a saint, the feminine Edwina developed later, following the pattern of creating feminine variants from masculine names (e.g., Paulina from Paul, Georgina from George). After the Norman Conquest, the name Edwin declined in usage, but it was revived in the 19th century alongside other Old English names. Edwina likely arose during this revival, as parents sought elegant feminine adaptations. Variant spellings include Edweena, Edwena, and Edwyna, while common diminutives are Eddie in English. Notable Bearers Edwina appears in various fields: Politics and governance: Edwina Currie served as a British Member of Parliament and novelist; Edwina P. Dalton and Edwina Benner were American elected officials. Science and academia: Edwina Cornish is an Australian biologist; Edwina Eustis Dick achieved prominence as a contralto. Sports and media: Edwina Bartholomew is an Australian journalist, Edwina Bone an Olympic field hockey player, and Edwina Chamier an Alpine skiing champion. Meaning: Feminine form of Edwin, "rich friend" Origin: Old English Type: Feminine given name Usage regions: English-speaking world (19th–20th centuries)