MallowbyNames

Gleb

GLEHB · Of uncertain origin; possibly derived from a Slavic root meaning 'earth' or 'soil'.

Peak popularity
2013
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 2014

Declining since 2014.

Popularity of Gleb since 2003

Babies named Gleb per year in U.S. Social Security records.

7132020102020Most births 2013Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
2000s25
2010s122
2020s15

Meaning & origin

Gleb entered the U.S. Social Security database in 2003, a relatively recent appearance compared to its ancient Slavic roots. The name reached its highest recorded usage in 2013, but has been on a downward trajectory since 2014, reflecting a decline in the number of American newborns given this name. While its exact meaning is debated, Gleb's association with a medieval saint gives it historical weight. The name remains rare in the United States, with no state ranking among the top names. Its stability as a distinct Slavic import makes it a notable choice for families preserving Eastern European heritage.

Gleb is a name of Slavic origin, first recorded in medieval Rus. It is often considered a variant of the Old East Slavic name Glebŭ, possibly derived from the Scandinavian name Guðleifr or from a Slavic element meaning 'earth'. Saint Gleb, a prince of Kiev martyred in 1015, helped popularize the name in Eastern Orthodox regions. In modern times, the name remains common in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus.

Sibling names for Gleb

Names that share Gleb's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

G is for Gleb, our favorite little boy.

G is for Gleb…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Gleb's letter becomes Gleb's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Gleb's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Gleb mean?
The meaning of Gleb is uncertain; it may derive from a Slavic root meaning 'earth' or from an Old Norse name meaning 'heir'.
Is Gleb a popular name?
Gleb has been in the U.S. Social Security data since 2003, and its peak usage year was 2013. It has been falling in popularity since 2014.
Is Gleb a boy or girl name?
Gleb is traditionally a masculine name.