Find out how popular the first name Garland has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Garland by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Garland is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 94% of people named Garland being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 23 male babies and 5 female babies born with the name Garland.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 5 baby girls were named Garland in 2023, despite it being a predominantly male name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Garland

The name Garland has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the word "gyrland," which referred to a wreath or a garland made of flowers and plants. This name became popular in medieval England and was often associated with the natural beauty and abundance of the countryside.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Garland dates back to the 13th century, where it appeared in various historical records and literature. In the 14th century, the famous English poet Geoffrey Chaucer mentioned a character named Garland in his work "The Canterbury Tales," further solidifying the name's presence in English culture.

During the Renaissance period, the name Garland gained popularity among the nobility and upper classes, symbolizing a connection to nature and the arts. Several notable individuals bore this name, including the English poet and playwright Garland Langhorne (1609-1657), who was renowned for his pastoral poetry.

In the 18th century, the name Garland became associated with the American colonies, where it was embraced by settlers and pioneers. One notable figure was Garland Carr (1735-1800), a prominent Virginia planter and political figure who served in the Virginia House of Burgesses.

As the name spread across different regions and cultures, it took on various spellings and variations, such as Garlande, Garlond, and Garlant. However, the core meaning of the name remained tied to its botanical origins and the symbolism of natural beauty and abundance.

Throughout history, several other notable individuals have carried the name Garland, including the American artist Garland Woodbury Hibbard (1886-1972), known for his landscape paintings, and the American actress Garland Greene (1939-2020), who appeared in numerous television shows and films.

The name Garland has endured for centuries, carrying with it a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance, from its origins in medieval England to its widespread adoption across different regions and eras. Its botanical roots and association with natural beauty have contributed to its enduring appeal and its place in the annals of human history.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Garland was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Garland, please contact us.

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