Meaning and Origin of the Name Gloria

The meaning of Gloria comes from the Latin and old French Glory(to God) or to rejoice. It was feminised into the Latin Gloria by the Anglicans. Another meaning of Gloria is renown or fame and there have been several who have found renown with the popularity of Gloria.

Popularity

The name Gloria hit the height of its popularity in 1925, having been greatly influenced by the popular actress of the time, Gloria Swanson.

The popularity of Gloria would continue until 1964 when it finally dropped off the top 100 list of popular names. Gloria is re-emerging, however, partly due to the notable Hollywood couple Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard’s second child who bears the name, Gloria

Famous Glorias

• Gloria Hunniford: A British television and radio presenter popular on day time television.
• Gloria Estefan: A Cuban singer/songwriter born in Havana.
• Gloria Gaynor: American singer/songwriter from New Jersey famous for the song “I will survive”.

Useful Resources

Discover the meaning and popularity of other English girls’ names.