Manwë means 'good' or 'pure' in Quenya. He was also called Súlimo, Lord of the Breath of Arda, the Elder King, King of Arda, and the Lord of the West.

He was the King of Arda, spouse of Varda, brother of Melkor, and dearest to Ilúvatar. He gave most of his attention on the air, wind, clouds, and birds.

Manwë was compassionate and wise, but did not understand evil, and so was deceived by his brother Melkor.

Loving the Vanyar best among the Eldar, he delighted in poetry. His clothing and eyes were blue, and his sceptre was made of sapphire.

He had mansions called Ilmarin high on the mountain of Taniquetil in Valinor. He lived there with Varda