Swithin

Swithin is an Old English name derived from the elements 'swiþ' meaning 'strong' or 'swift' and 'wine' meaning 'friend'. The most famous bearer of this name is Saint Swithin (or Swithun), who was Bishop of Winchester in the 9th century. He was known for his piety and for overseeing the construction of churches. After his death, he was buried outside the Old Minster at Winchester, as he had requested, so that 'the sweet rain of heaven might fall upon him'.

The legend of St. Swithin's Day, observed on July 15th, states that if it rains on this day, it will rain for the next forty days. This folklore has kept the name, and the saint, in public consciousness for centuries, despite the name itself becoming quite rare. The name's usage peaked in the medieval period, largely due to the veneration of the saint.