Imogen

Imogen is a feminine given name of English origin. It is most commonly associated with Innogen, a legendary British queen mentioned in Geoffrey of Monmouth’s History of the Kings of Britain; Shakespeare popularized the spelling Imogen in his play Cymbeline (c. 1611), which helped establish the name in modern usage.

Etymology and meaning: The exact origin of Innogen/Imogen is unclear. Some scholars link Innogen to a Celtic element meaning “maiden” or “girl,” while others view it as a coined or Latinized form created by Geoffrey of Monmouth. Because of this uncertainty, the meaning of Imogen is not definitively established.

Usage and popularity: Imogen has been used in English-speaking countries for centuries, but it gained notable modern popularity in the late 20th century. The name is often regarded as having a classical, literary association and a contemporary, melodic sound. Variants include Imogene and Innogen.

Notable people: Imogen Heap, an English musician and composer, and Imogen Poots, an English actress, are among the more widely recognized contemporary bearers of the name. The name has also appeared in various works of fiction and media, reflecting its enduring literary associations.

Cultural references: The character Imogen in Cymbeline is a central figure renowned for her virtue and perseverance, and the name continues to appear in literature, film, and television due to these associations. Overall, Imogen is viewed as a classic yet modern-sounding name with strong cultural and historical ties.