What does Vlad mean and where does it come from?
Vlad is a name of Slavic origin commonly associated with several Eastern European countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Romania. The name's history is notable due to its association with Vlad III, also known as Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the Dracula legend. The name is often popular in various Sla
Cultural significance
Vlad has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Russia-speaking communities, where it reflects values of ruler.
Peak popularity
Reached #3619 in 2004 — currently #7266 in the US.
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Related Reading
Russia-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Vlad?
Vlad works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Vlad Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Vlad Rose
Floral · soft ending
Vlad Claire
French influence · crisp
Vlad Jane
Literary · strong
Vlad Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Vlad right now?
Falling — down 1422 spots — currently #7266 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #7266 | 12 | ▼ down 1422 · -25% births |
| 2022 | #5844 | 16 | ▼ down 1358 · -30% births |
| 2021 | #4486 | 23 | ▲ up 1072 · +44% births |
| 2020 | #5558 | 16 | ▼ down 568 · -16% births |
| 2015 | #4990 | 19 | ▼ down 787 · -21% births |
| 2010 | #4203 | 24 | ▼ down 20 · +9% births |
| 2005 | #4183 | 22 | ▲ up 1090 · +57% births |
| 2000 | #5273 | 14 | ▲ up 2515 · +100% births |
| 1995 | #7788 | 7 | — |
The story of Vlad
Vlad is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1995. With 463 total births recorded, Vlad remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7788 in 1995 to #7266 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Vlad in 2004:
Vlad by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1990s | 36 | |
| 2000s | 199 | |
| 2010s ★ | 212 | |
| 2020s | 16 | |
💎Vlad has only 463 total recorded births since 1995 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Vlad?
What names sound and feel like Vlad?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Vlad also consider these
How is Vlad written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Vlad?
Common questions about the name Vlad
What does the name Vlad mean?
Vlad means "Ruler" — a name rooted in Russia 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 Vlad?
Vlad is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Vlad?
Vlad originates from Russia tradition. Russia names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Vlad?
Vlad is a one-syllable name pronounced V L AE1 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Vlad sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Vlad flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Vlad ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.