Ceridwen

Ceridwen is a name of Welsh origin, derived from the legendary sorceress of medieval Welsh tradition. The name possibly comes from cyrrid meaning "bent, crooked" (a derivative of Old Welsh cwrr "corner") combined with ben "woman" or gwen "white, blessed". However, some theories connect her to the Welsh word cerdd "poetry", associating her with a Celtic goddess of inspiration.

Legend

According to the medieval Welsh legend the Tale of Taliesin (recorded by Elis Gruffyd in the 16th century), Ceridwen was an enchantress who prepared a potion of inspiration and wisdom for her son Morfran. The potion was accidentally consumed by her servant Gwion Bach, who was then pursued by Ceridwen. He transformed into various animals, but she finally swallowed him. She later gave birth to Gwion reborn as the renowned bard Taliesin.

Historical attestations

The name appears in early Welsh poetry: in the Black Book of Carmarthen as Kyrridven, and in the Book of Taliesin as Kerrituen. Ceridwen's cauldron is a central symbol of poetic inspiration (Awen). She is regarded by many modern pagans as a Celtic goddess of rebirth, transformation, and inspiration.

Forms

Variant forms of the name include Cerridwen and Cerridwyn.

• Meaning: Possibly "bent woman" or "white bent", but often linked to "poetry" via cerdd.
• Origin: Welsh from medieval legend.
• Type: Feminine first name.
• Usage regions: Wales, modern neo-pagan communities.