Gladys
Gladys is of Welsh origin, derived from the name Gwladys, meaning 'land' or 'nation.' It became popular in English-speaking countries during the Victorian era and carries a gentle, dignified quality.
Current Popularity
#3224 for girls
in the United States (2025)
Popularity over time
Good to Know
- •Easy to spell and pronounce across cultures
- •Strong vintage charm that's ripe for revival
- •Associated with strength and grace through its famous bearers
- •Less common today, making it distinctive without being unfamiliar
Similar Names
Famous People
Gladys Knight
Singer and 'Empress of Soul'
Gladys Cooper
British actress and theatrical icon
Gladys Bentley
Blues singer and Harlem Renaissance performer
Gladys Aylward
British missionary and humanitarian
Statistics
266,718
Total births since 1880
1920
Peak year
Discovery
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