Meaning: Its source is a Latin expression meaning "Glory."

Narrative: Though there were women in ancient Rome named Gloriosa, Gloria was not introduced as a name until 1898, when playwright George Bernard Shaw used it in his hit comedy You Never Can Tell.

Its popularity was furthered a few decades later by actress Gloria Swanson (1899-1983). Starting in silent pictures, she evolved into the prototype of the Hollywood star. Later in life she became a sculptor, and used her celebrity and her well-preserved looks to promote lifelong, healthy eating habits.