Ælfgifu

Ælfgifu is an Anglo-Saxon feminine personal name derived from the Old English elements ælf "elf" and giefu "gift". Many women of note bore this name during the Anglo-Saxon period. One notable bearer was the first wife of King Æðelræd II (Æthelred the Unready), known as Ælfgifu of York. Another was Ælfgifu of Northampton, the first wife of King Cnut the Great, whose name became Álfífa in Old Norse. The name was also Latinized in various forms such as Elgiva, Aluiua, and Aueue.

Etymology and Cultural Significance

The name reflects the Old English poetic tradition of combining elements from nature and mythology, with "ælf" referring to supernatural beings and "giefu" meaning gift, resulting in the meaning "elf-gift." This pattern of compounding was common among Anglo-Saxon names, emphasizing qualities or blessings.

Historical Context

Ælfgifu was notably adopted by Emma of Normandy, who upon marrying King Æthelred the Unready in 1002, took the native Anglo-Saxon name Ælfgifu for official and formal use. This practice highlighted the integration of foreign queens into English court culture. Several saints also bore the name, such as Ælfgifu of Exeter, an Anglo-Saxon saint.

The name after the Norman Conquest declined in usage, paralleling the fate of many native English names.

• Meaning: "Elf-gift"
• Origin: Old English
• Type: Feminine given name
• Usage regions: Anglo-Saxon England