Meaning & History
Audovera is a feminine name of Old Frankish origin, composed of the Germanic elements aud "wealth, fortune" and war "true" or war "aware, cautious". The name is historically associated with Audovera (c. 533–580), the first wife or consort of Chilperic I, a Merovingian king of Neustria.
Historical Significance
Audovera bore Chilperic five children, including Theudebert, Merovech, Clovis, Childesinda, and Basina. Her marriage ended tragically when she was set aside in favor of Fredegund, a former servant. According to Gregory of Tours, Fredegund orchestrated Audovera's downfall by tricking her into holding her daughter Childesinda at baptism, an act which at that time rendered Audovera spiritually ineligible to remain Chilperic's wife. Audovera was subsequently forced into a nunnery, and later killed by Fredegund's agents in 580.
The name's etymology reflects the values of prosperity and vigilance. The first element aud is common in Germanic names (e.g., Audrey, Odo), while the second element war appears in names like Clovis (from hlod + wig, a related element). Audovera is a rare name, primarily of historical interest, and does not appear in modern usage.
- Meaning: Wealth (or fortune) + true/aware
- Origin: Old Frankish / Germanic
- Type: Queen consort name
- Usage: Historical, chiefly 6th century
Sources: Wikipedia — Audovera