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Glenwood Boy

Popularity: · Trend: → Stable

Origin(s)

PronunciationGLEN-wood / /ˈɡlɛn.wʊd/

English; Scottish

Meaning

English: valley of the glen; Scottish: wooded valley

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Glenwood is of English origin, derived from the combination of two elements: "glen," which comes from the Old English "glenna," meaning a narrow valley, and "wood," which refers to a forest or wooded area. The term "glen" has its roots in the Gaelic word "gleann," which also signifies a valley, while "wood" can be traced back to the Old English "wudu." The amalgamation of these terms reflects a geographical feature, often indicating a location characterized by a wooded valley. The name entered the English lexicon during the Middle Ages, as place names often influenced personal names, particularly in rural areas where natural features were significant to identity and community.

Historically, the name Glenwood has been associated with various locations in England and later in America, particularly during the 19th century when many towns and communities were established. The name's usage as a personal name likely gained traction in the 19th century, coinciding with the Romantic movement, which celebrated nature and the pastoral ideal. While not directly linked to any specific biblical figures or saints, the elements of the name resonate with the English tradition of naming children after natural features, reflecting a deep connection to the landscape.

Culturally, Glenwood evokes imagery of serene natural settings, often symbolizing peace and tranquility. The name has been used in literature and place names, reinforcing its association with idyllic rural life. The diminutive form "Glen" is sometimes used, which retains the essence of the original name while providing a more casual alternative. Overall, Glenwood embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic heritage and cultural significance, rooted in the natural world and the historical development of names in English-speaking societies.

Trend Summary

Glenwood has seen limited popularity as a given name in the United States.

Similar Names

Variants

International Variants

Famous people named Glenwood

Fictional characters named Glenwood

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Glenwood was first seen in the United States in 1902. Glenwood has ranked as high as #824 nationally, which occurred in 1920, and has been most popular in North Carolina, Virginia, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Maine. In the past 5 years the name Glenwood has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Glenwood (1984)

StateBirthsShare
VA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19026
19065
19085
19096
19107
19116
191218
191319
191436
191547
191639
191745
191847
191938
192066
192164
192250
192345
192439
192533
192640
192739
192845
192938
193046
193149
193248
193338
193439
193539
193640
193735
193830
193924
194038
194140
194239
194340
194422
194527
194629
194745
194829
194946
195041
195142
195226
195336
195436
195529
195623
195742
195834
195914
196022
196126
196224
196322
196415
196525
196612
196726
196812
19699
197014
197114
197217
197310
197415
197614
197812
197914
19808
19817
19826
198312
198412
19856
19868
19879
19915
19965
19977
19985
20015