Imogen

Girl Name
Origin:gaelic
Pronunciation:/ˈɪm.ə.dʒən/

Imogen: a female name of Gaelic origin meaning "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U". It derives from the Gaelic word "inghean > ingen > Innogen".

In Gaelic tradition, Imogen holds special significance as a feminine name representing Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Gaelic culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Imogen

Quick facts about Imogen
OriginGaelic
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

inghean > ingen > Innogen

How to Pronounce Imogen

Imogen is pronounced /ˈɪm.ə.dʒən/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Im-og-en
  2. Say it like: "IM-OG-EN"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across english, scottish, and welsh speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

englishscottishwelsh
Frequently Asked Questions About Imogen
What does the name Imogen mean?
Imogen means "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen.". The name comes from inghean > ingen > Innogen. This gaelic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Imogen for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Imogen's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like LITERATURE, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Imogen?
Imogen is a gaelic name. The name traces back to inghean > ingen > Innogen. From its gaelic roots, Imogen spread to become common in english, scottish, welsh. The gaelic meaning "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Imogen a boy or girl name?
Imogen is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In gaelic tradition, Imogen has historically been given to girls. The meaning "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Imogen?
Imogen is pronounced "/ˈɪm.ə.dʒən/". This pronunciation follows ga language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Imogen is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, scottish, welsh, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with gaelic names, listening to a native speaker say Imogen can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Imogen?
Imogen is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Imogen offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Imogen's popularity may vary between gaelic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Imogen holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Imogen commonly used?
Imogen is common in english and scottish and welsh naming traditions. Though gaelic in origin, Imogen found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Imogen, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Imogen into their naming traditions. A child named Imogen will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Imogen is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Imogen?
Imogen carries associations with LITERATURE. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "Imogen, alternatively, mainly in the U.S., Imogene, is a female given name, probably created by Shakespeare for a character in his play Cymbeline. Shakespeare may have meant to use the name of Innogen, a legendary British figure; wife to King Brutus and mother of Locrinus, Albanactus, and Camber, whose name derived from Old Irish “ingen,” meaning “daughter or maiden,” but the name (which Shakespeare also used for a ghost character in early editions of Much Ado About Nothing), was printed instead as Imogen." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In gaelic culture, where Imogen originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Imogen sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Imogen often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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