Vlad is a unique and distinctive name of Romanian origin. It is derived from the old Slavic word "vladimir," which means "to rule" or "to command." The name Vlad is traditionally given to boys, although it can also be used for girls.
The most notable figure associated with the name Vlad is Vlad III Dracula, who ruled Wallachia in the 15th century. He was known as Vlad Tepes, which means "Vlad the Impaler," due to his preferred method of execution. However, despite his fearsome reputation, Vlad III was a complex historical figure whose legacy continues to fascinate historians and enthusiasts alike.
In popular culture, the name Vlad is most commonly associated with vampires due to Bram Stoker's 1897 gothic novel "Dracula." The novel features Count Dracula, who is portrayed as a vampire that must feed on human blood to survive. While the character of Dracula was inspired by Vlad III Dracula, it is important to note that the real-life Vlad III was not a supernatural being and there is no historical evidence supporting his vampiric nature.
Overall, Vlad is an interesting and historic name with a rich cultural heritage. Its meaning and origins provide insight into its original significance while its association with prominent figures like Vlad III Dracula adds intrigue and fascination to the name. Despite its associations with darkness and fear, the name Vlad remains beautiful and unique in its own right.
The name Vlad experienced steady growth in popularity from 1997 onwards, with a significant spike occurring between 2004 and 2008, during which the annual number of births peaked at 26. After 2008, the frequency of this name stabilized around 20-25 births per year until 2021, when it jumped up to 23 births, followed by a slight decline in recent years with 16 and 12 births recorded in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Overall, the total number of births given the name Vlad over these years is 514.