The spelling of the name "Gudrunn" is influenced by the phonetics of the Icelandic language. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈɡʏdrʏn/. The initial sound "ɡ" is a voiced velar stop, followed by the vowel sound "ʏ" which is a close central rounded vowel. The consonant cluster "dr" is a voiced alveolar flap and the final sound "n" is a voiced alveolar nasal. The unusual spelling reflects the unique pronunciation of this Icelandic name.
The name "Gudrun" is of Old Norse origin. It can be traced back to the Germanic languages, specifically the combination of the elements "gud" meaning "God" and "run" meaning "secret" or "lore". Therefore, the name "Gudrun" can be understood as "God's secret" or "God's lore". It was a common name in Norse mythology and literature, appearing as the name of several important female characters.