Glen

Updated: September 29, 2023 by MomsWhoThink Staff

When you hear the unisex name Glen, you may first think of the longer option, Glenn. The former is a variation of the latter, however. Though no longer a top 1,000 option for boys or girls, Glen is a top 3,400 name choice.

Meaning of the Name Glen

Glen is a variation of Glenn. Glenn was originally a surname in Scotland that came from the word “gleann.” Both names spread to America in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Glen means “narrow valley” because of the original name, Glenn. Remember, it was a variation of the Gaelic word “gleann.” “Gleann” translates to “valley” in English.

Nothing beats a good breakfast. A cute little boy eating toast with jam. — ©PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock.com

Nicknames for Glen

Glen is a wholesome and kind name. It is mature and simple and can be made fun with a cute and unique nickname. Below, we've compiled a list of nicknames you can consider for the Glen in your life:

Glee
Gee
GG
Len
Glenni
Glennie
Glenny
Lennie
Lenny

Glen Name Details

Style: Traditional

Gender: Glen is traditionally considered to be a boys name.

Pronunciation: GLEHN

Syllables: One

Alternative Spelling for Glen

Glenn
Gllen
Gllenn

Glen Name Popularity

Glen was a top 1,000 name option in America until 2003 when it was number 970. Glen was on the top 200 list, however, until 1971. It was most popular in 1931 at rank 112. As of 2021, Glen is a top 3,400 option.