Aelfwine is a name that appears in various contexts in medieval literature, particularly in Old English and Middle English works. The name is Old English in origin and is composed of two elements: "aelf," meaning elf, and "wine," meaning friend. Therefore, Aelfwine can be translated as "elf friend" or "friend of the elves."
One notable figure named Aelfwine is found in J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium, specifically in "The Lost Road and Other Writings," part of "The History of Middle-earth" series. In Tolkien's works, Aelfwine is a mariner of the early 10th century who is said to have encountered the Elven loremaster Pengolodh on the shores of Tol Eressea. He is the supposed translator of many Elvish tales and histories into Old English, which later become part of the mythology of Middle-earth.
It's important to note that Aelfwine is a name that has been used in various ways in different historical and literary contexts, so the specific details and significance of the character can vary depending on the source.