All about the name

Greta

Male

« Greta is a Germanic female given name meaning "peace," with notable bearers including actress Greta Garbo and environmental activist Greta Thunberg. »

#41961 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Greta is a feminine given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old Norse word "gréttr," which means "peace." The name has been used in various forms throughout history and across different cultures. The most well-known historical figure with the name Greta was Greta Garbo, a Swedish actress who rose to fame in Hollywood during the 1920s and 1930s. She is considered one of the greatest stars of the silent film era and became known for her enigmatic screen persona and her famous line, "I want to be alone." Despite her popularity, Garbo remained famously private throughout her life. In more recent times, Greta Thunberg has become another well-known figure with this name. A Swedish environmental activist who was born in 2003, Thunberg gained international recognition for her activism against climate change. She began protesting outside the Swedish parliament in August 2018 and became the face of the global Fridays For Future movement. Throughout history, the name Greta has been associated with strength, independence, and quiet determination. Whether it's Greta Garbo's ability to captivate audiences despite her reserved nature or Greta Thunberg's unwavering commitment to fighting for environmental justice, those who bear this name often embody a powerful spirit that transcends societal expectations. Today, the name Greta continues to be popular among parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their daughters. Its connection to peace and its historical significance make it an appealing choice for many families around the world.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Greta since 1880

Total births
5
Total since 1880
Peak year
1934
5 births
in 1934
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years