What does Glada mean and where does it come from?
Glada is a name of Swedish origin, derived from the word 'glad' meaning 'happy' or 'cheerful'. It is relatively uncommon as a given name and is more commonly known as a surname or adjective in the Scandinavian countries. The name embodies positivity and joy, and while it has origins in folklore and
Cultural significance
Glada has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Swedish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of happy, cheerful.
Peak popularity
Reached #1255 in 1897 — currently #1306 in the US.
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Related Reading
Swedish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Glada?
Glada works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Glada Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Glada Rose
Floral · soft ending
Glada Mae
Sweet · timeless
Glada Claire
French influence · crisp
Glada Jane
Literary · strong
Glada Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Glada right now?
Holding steady — currently #1306 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1306 | 894 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1311 | 874 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1316 | 844 | ▲ up 1698 · +9278% births |
| 1940 | #3014 | 9 | ▼ down 26 |
| 1935 | #2988 | 9 | ▼ down 643 · -36% births |
| 1930 | #2345 | 14 | ▲ up 342 · +8% births |
| 1925 | #2687 | 13 | ▼ down 1088 · -52% births |
| 1920 | #1599 | 27 | ▲ up 331 · +59% births |
| 1915 | #1930 | 17 | ▲ up 608 · +240% births |
| 1910 | #2538 | 5 | ▼ down 1007 · -37% births |
| 1900 | #1531 | 8 | — |
The story of Glada
Glada has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. With 486 total births recorded, Glada remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1531 in 1900 to #1306 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Glada in 1897:
Glada by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 14 | |
| 1900s | 34 | |
| 1910s | 124 | |
| 1920s ★ | 159 | |
| 1930s | 116 | |
| 1940s | 39 | |
💎Glada has only 486 total recorded births since 1893 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Glada?
What names sound and feel like Glada?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Glada also consider these
Common questions about the name Glada
What does the name Glada mean?
Glada means "Happy, cheerful" — a name rooted in Swedish tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Glada?
Glada is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Glada?
Glada originates from Swedish tradition. Swedish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Glada a common or rare name?
Glada is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Glada?
Glada naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.