Origin and Meaning of Glenda

Meaning & Origin

Fair, pure, and blessed

Origin: Welsh - Derived from the Welsh words 'glen' meaning 'valley' and 'da' meaning 'good' or 'fair'.

Interesting Facts

  • Glenda gained popularity largely due to the character Glenda the Good Witch from L. Frank Baum's 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', which was later adapted into various films.
  • The name is mostly used in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Glenda Jackson, a British actress and politician, and Glenda Adams, an Australian novelist.
  • Glenda saw a surge in popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1940s to the 1960s, before gradually declining in use.
  • Related names or variations include Gwendolyn and Glenda's diminutives like Glen or Glyn.