Wendy's is named after founder Dave Thomas's daughter, Melinda Lou “Wendy” Thomas.
Melinda was unable to pronounce her own name clearly as a young child and used “Wendy” as a nickname. Her father chose that nickname for the restaurant brand he founded in Columbus, Ohio, in 1969.
The name is therefore a family reference rather than a description of the food or location. The original logo and restaurant identity also used a red-haired girl, reinforcing the connection to the founder's daughter.
A frequent mistake is to assume that Wendy's was named after a founder, an employee, or a fictional character. Dave Thomas founded the chain, but the brand name refers to his daughter. Melinda later appeared in advertising and public work connected with the company, making her one of the most recognizable family figures in fast-food history.