<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?>
<!-- DFIN ActiveDisclosure(SM) XBRL Linkbase Document - http://www.dfinsolutions.com/ -->
<!-- Creation Date      : 2019-10-28T22:20:15.2051795+00:00 -->
<!-- Version            : 5.0.0.208 -->
<!-- Package ID         : 6fd991e2efcb4b54a95a7bcea4881034 -->
<!-- Copyright (c) 2019 Donnelley Financial Solutions, Inc. All Rights Reserved. -->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" />
  <link:roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#TemplateLink" roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/role/TemplateLink" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsUnauditedParenthetical" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsUnauditedParenthetical" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsUnauditedParenthetical">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/StatementStatementsOfShareholdersEquity" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_StatementStatementsOfShareholdersEquity" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/StatementStatementsOfShareholdersEquity">
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AdjustmentToStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AdjustmentToStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AdjustmentToStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensationGross" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AdjustmentToStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensationGross" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DeliveryOfTreasurySharesAbstract" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DeliveryOfTreasurySharesAbstract" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOnRetainedEarningsNetOfTax1" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOnRetainedEarningsNetOfTax1" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="10030.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" order="10060.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_2" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" order="10190.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" order="10220.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOnRetainedEarningsNetOfTax1" order="10360.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" order="10500.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" order="10640.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" order="10780.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" order="10920.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" order="11060.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DeliveryOfTreasurySharesAbstract" order="11200.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_DeliveryOfTreasurySharesAbstract" xlink:to="glt_AdjustmentToStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensationGross" order="11480.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_DeliveryOfTreasurySharesAbstract" xlink:to="glt_AdjustmentToStockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" order="11620.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/StatementStatementsOfShareholdersEquityParenthetical" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_StatementStatementsOfShareholdersEquityParenthetical" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/StatementStatementsOfShareholdersEquityParenthetical">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" order="10290.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesTables" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesTables" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesTables">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowHedgesIncludedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowHedgesIncludedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNotionalAmountsOfOutstandingDerivativePositionsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNotionalAmountsOfOutstandingDerivativePositionsTableTextBlock" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNotionalAmountsOfOutstandingDerivativePositionsTableTextBlock" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock" order="10280.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock" order="10330.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowHedgesIncludedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock" order="10380.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" order="10140.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" order="10160.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAcquisitionAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureAcquisitionAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAcquisitionAdditionalInformationDetails">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillExpectedTaxDeductibleAmount" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillExpectedTaxDeductibleAmount" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityNumberOfEmployees" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="dei_EntityNumberOfEmployees" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AnnualProductionCapacity" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AnnualProductionCapacity" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_BusinessCombinationPostClosingPurchasePriceAdjustments" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_BusinessCombinationPostClosingPurchasePriceAdjustments" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEffectiveDateOfAcquisition1" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEffectiveDateOfAcquisition1" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_GPBusinessMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_GPBusinessMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="glt_GPBusinessMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" order="10300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEffectiveDateOfAcquisition1" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="glt_BusinessCombinationPostClosingPurchasePriceAdjustments" order="10340.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="glt_AnnualProductionCapacity" order="10390.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityNumberOfEmployees" order="10410.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" order="10460.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" order="10480.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillExpectedTaxDeductibleAmount" order="10500.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAcquisitionSummaryOfAllocationOfPurchasePriceToAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDetails" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureAcquisitionSummaryOfAllocationOfPurchasePriceToAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDetails" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAcquisitionSummaryOfAllocationOfPurchasePriceToAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDetails">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilities" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilities" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilities" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesAccountsPayable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesAccountsPayable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_GPBusinessMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_GPBusinessMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="glt_GPBusinessMember" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" order="10260.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents" order="10300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory" order="10340.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets" order="10360.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" order="10380.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" order="10400.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" order="10420.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets" order="10440.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" order="10460.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesAccountsPayable" order="10500.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilities" order="10520.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" order="10540.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilities" order="10560.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" order="10580.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" order="10620.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureRevenueSummaryOfDisaggregatedInformationPertainingToNetSalesDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureRevenueSummaryOfDisaggregatedInformationPertainingToNetSalesDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureRevenueSummaryOfDisaggregatedInformationPertainingToNetSalesDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_AsiaPacificMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_AsiaPacificMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2017/country-2017-01-31.xsd#country_US" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_EuropeMiddleEastAndAfricaMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_EuropeMiddleEastAndAfricaMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OtherProductsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OtherProductsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_HomeCareMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_HomeCareMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AdultIncontinenceMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AdultIncontinenceMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TableTopMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TableTopMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_SpecialtyWipesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_SpecialtyWipesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FeminineHygieneMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FeminineHygieneMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_MetallizedMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_MetallizedMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_CompositeLaminatesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_CompositeLaminatesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TechnicalSpecialtiesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TechnicalSpecialtiesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_WallcoveringMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_WallcoveringMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FoodAndBeverageMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FoodAndBeverageMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AirlaidMaterialsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AirlaidMaterialsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_CompositeFibersMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_CompositeFibersMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:to="glt_CompositeFibersMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:to="glt_AirlaidMaterialsMember" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" order="10340.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_2" order="10350.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" order="10370.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FoodAndBeverageMember" order="10390.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_WallcoveringMember" order="10410.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_TechnicalSpecialtiesMember" order="10430.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_CompositeLaminatesMember" order="10450.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_MetallizedMember" order="10470.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_FeminineHygieneMember" order="10490.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_SpecialtyWipesMember" order="10510.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_TableTopMember" order="10530.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_AdultIncontinenceMember" order="10550.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_HomeCareMember" order="10570.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="glt_OtherProductsMember" order="10590.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductMember" order="10610.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" order="10820.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_2" order="10830.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" order="10850.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="glt_EuropeMiddleEastAndAfricaMember" order="10870.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_US" order="10890.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="srt_AsiaPacificMember" order="10910.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" order="11060.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsAdditionalInformationDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssetsTransferredToFromPlan" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssetsTransferredToFromPlan" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationPensionPlanBenefitObligation" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationPensionPlanBenefitObligation" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationAccruedLiabilities" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationAccruedLiabilities" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationConsideration" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationConsideration" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationConsideration" order="10200.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" order="10220.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationAccruedLiabilities" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationPensionPlanBenefitObligation" order="10260.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssetsTransferredToFromPlan" order="10280.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsSummaryOfDiscontinuedOperationsIncludedInCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsSummaryOfDiscontinuedOperationsIncludedInCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsSummaryOfDiscontinuedOperationsIncludedInCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationImpairmentCharge" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationImpairmentCharge" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationOtherIncomeExpense" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationOtherIncomeExpense" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationInterestExpense" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationInterestExpense" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationIncomeStatementDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationIncomeStatementDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationOperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationOperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDispositionsOfPlantEquipmentAndTimberlandsNet" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDispositionsOfPlantEquipmentAndTimberlandsNet" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGeneralAdministrativeExpenseAndInsuranceRecovery" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGeneralAdministrativeExpenseAndInsuranceRecovery" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGrossProfitLoss" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGrossProfitLoss" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCostsOfGoodsSold" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCostsOfGoodsSold" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EnergyCommoditiesAndServiceMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_EnergyCommoditiesAndServiceMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" order="10100.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" order="10160.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" order="10190.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" order="10220.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductMember" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EnergyCommoditiesAndServiceMember" order="10260.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" order="10290.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCostsOfGoodsSold" order="10530.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGrossProfitLoss" order="10610.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGeneralAdministrativeExpenseAndInsuranceRecovery" order="10690.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDispositionsOfPlantEquipmentAndTimberlandsNet" order="10770.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationOperatingIncomeLoss" order="10850.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationIncomeStatementDisclosuresAbstract" order="10930.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationInterestExpense" order="11090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationOtherIncomeExpense" order="11170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationImpairmentCharge" order="11250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" order="11330.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" order="11410.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" order="11490.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsSummaryOfCashFlowsFromDiscontinuedOperationsIncludedInCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsSummaryOfCashFlowsFromDiscontinuedOperationsIncludedInCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsSummaryOfCashFlowsFromDiscontinuedOperationsIncludedInCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInDiscontinuedOperations" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" order="10100.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_SpecialtyPapersMember" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" order="10190.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInDiscontinuedOperations" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureGainsOnDispositionOfPlantEquipmentAndTimberlandsSummaryForSaleOfTimberlandsAndOtherAssetsIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureGainsOnDispositionOfPlantEquipmentAndTimberlandsSummaryForSaleOfTimberlandsAndOtherAssetsIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureGainsOnDispositionOfPlantEquipmentAndTimberlandsSummaryForSaleOfTimberlandsAndOtherAssetsIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AreaOfLand" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AreaOfLand" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCapitalizedPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCapitalizedPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TimberlandsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TimberlandsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_TimberlandsMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCapitalizedPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AreaOfLand" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" order="10300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" order="10420.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeScheduleOfChangesInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossesDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeScheduleOfChangesInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossesDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeScheduleOfChangesInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossesDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossBeforeReclassificationsNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossBeforeReclassificationsNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAdjustedBalance" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAdjustedBalance" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOfNewAccountingPrincipleInPeriodOfAdoption" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOfNewAccountingPrincipleInPeriodOfAdoption" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansOtherPostretirementAdjustmentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansOtherPostretirementAdjustmentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_UnrealizedGainsLossesCashFlowHedgesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_UnrealizedGainsLossesCashFlowHedgesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedTranslationAdjustmentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedTranslationAdjustmentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable" order="10030.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" order="10060.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedTranslationAdjustmentMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="glt_UnrealizedGainsLossesCashFlowHedgesMember" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansOtherPostretirementAdjustmentMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOfNewAccountingPrincipleInPeriodOfAdoption" order="10440.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:to="glt_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAdjustedBalance" order="10560.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossBeforeReclassificationsNetOfTax" order="10680.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTax" order="10800.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" order="10920.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeScheduleOfAmountsReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAndIntoCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeScheduleOfAmountsReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAndIntoCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeScheduleOfAmountsReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAndIntoCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetActuarialGainsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetActuarialGainsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetCurtailmentRecognitionMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetCurtailmentRecognitionMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetDiscontinuedOperationsAmortizationMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetDiscontinuedOperationsAmortizationMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetActuarialLossesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetActuarialLossesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetPriorServiceCostCreditMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetPriorServiceCostCreditMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedGainLossNetCashFlowHedgeParentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedGainLossNetCashFlowHedgeParentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherPensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherPensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" order="10030.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" order="10060.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain_2" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_2" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" order="10220.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_2" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" order="10250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherPensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" order="10410.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" order="10520.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" order="10550.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedGainLossNetCashFlowHedgeParentMember" order="10570.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetPriorServiceCostCreditMember" order="10630.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetActuarialLossesMember" order="10650.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetDiscontinuedOperationsAmortizationMember" order="10670.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetCurtailmentRecognitionMember" order="10690.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="glt_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetActuarialGainsMember" order="10710.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold" order="10780.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" order="10860.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" order="10940.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" order="11020.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" order="11260.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureIncomeTaxesAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesAdditionalInformationDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DecreaseInUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIsReasonablyPossible" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DecreaseInUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIsReasonablyPossible" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TaxCutsAndJobsActOf2017DeductionInGlobalIntangibleLowTaxedIncomePercentage" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TaxCutsAndJobsActOf2017DeductionInGlobalIntangibleLowTaxedIncomePercentage" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TaxCutsAndJobsActOf2017ChangeInEffectiveTaxRateDueToGlobalIntangibleLowTaxedIncomeProvisions" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TaxCutsAndJobsActOf2017ChangeInEffectiveTaxRateDueToGlobalIntangibleLowTaxedIncomeProvisions" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:to="glt_TaxCutsAndJobsActOf2017ChangeInEffectiveTaxRateDueToGlobalIntangibleLowTaxedIncomeProvisions" order="10220.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:to="glt_TaxCutsAndJobsActOf2017DeductionInGlobalIntangibleLowTaxedIncomePercentage" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" order="10290.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" order="10340.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate" order="10380.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxContingencyLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DecreaseInUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIsReasonablyPossible" order="10450.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesSummaryOfTaxYearsThatRemainSubjectToExaminationByMajorJurisdictionDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureIncomeTaxesSummaryOfTaxYearsThatRemainSubjectToExaminationByMajorJurisdictionDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesSummaryOfTaxYearsThatRemainSubjectToExaminationByMajorJurisdictionDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_IncomeTaxExaminationInProgressYear" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_IncomeTaxExaminationInProgressYear" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_IncomeTaxExaminationNotYetInitiated" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_IncomeTaxExaminationNotYetInitiated" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ForeignCountryMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ForeignCountryMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2017/country-2017-01-31.xsd#country_PH" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="country_PH" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2017/country-2017-01-31.xsd#country_GB" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="country_GB" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2017/country-2017-01-31.xsd#country_FR" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="country_FR" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2017/country-2017-01-31.xsd#country_DE" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="country_DE" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2017/country-2017-01-31.xsd#country_CA" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="country_CA" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2017/country-2017-01-31.xsd#country_US" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="country_US" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_US" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_CA" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_DE" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_FR" order="10250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_GB" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_PH" order="10290.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" order="10300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_2" order="10310.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" order="10330.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" order="10350.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" order="10370.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ForeignCountryMember" order="10390.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_IncomeTaxExaminationNotYetInitiated" order="11000.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExaminationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_IncomeTaxExaminationInProgressYear" order="11420.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAdditionalServicePeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAdditionalServicePeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsCumulativePerformanceTargetPeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsCumulativePerformanceTargetPeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRights" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRights" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_PerformanceShareAwardsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_PerformanceShareAwardsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_PerformanceShareAwardsMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" order="10250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRights" order="10280.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="glt_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsCumulativePerformanceTargetPeriod" order="10300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="glt_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAdditionalServicePeriod" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" order="10370.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1" order="10440.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" order="10460.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" order="10480.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRSUAndPSAActivityDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRSUAndPSAActivityDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRSUAndPSAActivityDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" order="10160.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" order="10200.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationCompensationExpenseForPeriodsIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureStockBasedCompensationCompensationExpenseForPeriodsIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationCompensationExpenseForPeriodsIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_RestrictedStockUnitsAndPerformanceShareAwardsMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationScheduleOfInformationRelatedToOutstandingSOSARSDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureStockBasedCompensationScheduleOfInformationRelatedToOutstandingSOSARSDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationScheduleOfInformationRelatedToOutstandingSOSARSDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" order="10260.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriod" order="10380.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" order="10530.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" order="10590.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" order="10650.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" order="10710.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureRetirementPlansAndOtherPostRetirementBenefitsScheduleOfNetPeriodicCostsOfPensionAndPostRetirementMedicalBenefitPlansIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureRetirementPlansAndOtherPostRetirementBenefitsScheduleOfNetPeriodicCostsOfPensionAndPostRetirementMedicalBenefitPlansIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureRetirementPlansAndOtherPostRetirementBenefitsScheduleOfNetPeriodicCostsOfPensionAndPostRetirementMedicalBenefitPlansIncludedInContinuingOperationsDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" order="10060.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" order="10140.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" order="10260.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" order="10630.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" order="10670.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" order="10710.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" order="10750.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses" order="10790.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" order="10830.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfLongTermDebtDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfLongTermDebtDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfLongTermDebtDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscountPremiumNet" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscountPremiumNet" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" order="10100.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" order="10140.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" order="10160.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10200.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" order="10220.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_2" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" order="10260.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyMember" order="10280.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" order="10300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" order="10330.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" order="10690.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscountPremiumNet" order="10730.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" order="10770.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfLongTermDebtParentheticalDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfLongTermDebtParentheticalDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfLongTermDebtParentheticalDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10310.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" order="10350.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" order="10400.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" order="10520.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureLongTermDebtAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtAdditionalInformationDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AmountOfLettersOfCreditIssuedAndReducingAvailabilityUnderRevolvingCreditFacility" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AmountOfLettersOfCreditIssuedAndReducingAvailabilityUnderRevolvingCreditFacility" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DebtInstrumentCovenantComplianceLeverageRatioActual" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DebtInstrumentCovenantComplianceLeverageRatioActual" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DebtInstrumentCovenantComplianceLeverageRatioThreshold" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DebtInstrumentCovenantComplianceLeverageRatioThreshold" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansReceivableWithVariableRatesOfInterest1" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansReceivableWithVariableRatesOfInterest1" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/invest/2013/invest-2013-01-31.xsd#invest_DerivativeNotionalAmount" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="invest_DerivativeNotionalAmount" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionGainLossBeforeTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionGainLossBeforeTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FloatingToFixedInterestRateSwapAgreementMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FloatingToFixedInterestRateSwapAgreementMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_EuriborMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_EuriborMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EurodollarMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_EurodollarMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FederalFundsRateMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FederalFundsRateMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TermLoansMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TermLoansMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" order="10100.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TermLoansMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_2" order="10250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="glt_FederalFundsRateMember" order="10290.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EurodollarMember" order="10310.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="glt_EuriborMember" order="10350.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" order="10380.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" order="10410.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" order="10430.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" order="10450.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" order="10540.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_2" order="10550.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" order="10570.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_FloatingToFixedInterestRateSwapAgreementMember" order="10590.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" order="10640.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_2" order="10650.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" order="10670.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember" order="10690.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" order="10950.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" order="11000.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionGainLossBeforeTax" order="11180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" order="11240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" order="11390.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="invest_DerivativeNotionalAmount" order="11580.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" order="11600.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansReceivableWithVariableRatesOfInterest1" order="11620.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" order="11640.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DebtInstrumentCovenantComplianceLeverageRatioThreshold" order="11690.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DebtInstrumentCovenantComplianceLeverageRatioActual" order="11730.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" order="11780.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="glt_AmountOfLettersOfCreditIssuedAndReducingAvailabilityUnderRevolvingCreditFacility" order="11830.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" order="11870.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfDebtsBorrowedBySubsidiaryDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfDebtsBorrowedBySubsidiaryDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtSummaryOfDebtsBorrowedBySubsidiaryDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_IkbDeutscheIndustriebankAgMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_IkbDeutscheIndustriebankAgMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_GlatfelterGernsbachGmbHAndCoKGMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_GlatfelterGernsbachGmbHAndCoKGMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_IKBDeutscheIndustriebankAGBorrowingAgreementsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_IKBDeutscheIndustriebankAGBorrowingAgreementsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_IKBDeutscheIndustriebankAGBorrowingAgreementsMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="10100.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_2" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="glt_GlatfelterGernsbachGmbHAndCoKGMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" order="10160.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain_2" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" order="10190.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityLenderDomain" xlink:to="glt_IkbDeutscheIndustriebankAgMember" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" order="10340.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" order="10440.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsCarryingValueAndFairValueOfLongTermDebtDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsCarryingValueAndFairValueOfLongTermDebtDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsCarryingValueAndFairValueOfLongTermDebtDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyAndNovemberTwoThousandSixteenMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyAndNovemberTwoThousandSixteenMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_RevolvingCreditFacilityDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyAndNovemberTwoThousandSixteenMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_FivePointThreeSevenFivePercentNotesDueOctoberTwoThousandTwentyMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TermLoanDueFebruaryTwoThousandAndTwentyFourMember" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10190.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" order="10440.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsCarryingValueAndFairValueOfLongTermDebtParentheticalDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsCarryingValueAndFairValueOfLongTermDebtParentheticalDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsCarryingValueAndFairValueOfLongTermDebtParentheticalDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointFourZeroPercentTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_TwoPointZeroFivePercentTermLoanDueMarchTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointThreeZeroPercentageTermLoanDueJuneTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_OnePointFiveFivePercentageTermLoanDueSeptemberTwoThousandTwentyFiveMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesAdditionalInformationDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeRealizationPeriod" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeRealizationPeriod" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_MaturitiesOfForeignCurrencyDerivativeContracts" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_MaturitiesOfForeignCurrencyDerivativeContracts" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" order="10200.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" order="10250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" order="10330.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" order="10340.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_2" order="10350.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" order="10370.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" order="10390.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems" xlink:to="glt_MaturitiesOfForeignCurrencyDerivativeContracts" order="10520.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems" xlink:to="glt_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeRealizationPeriod" order="10640.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesOutstandingDerivativesUsedToHedgeForeignExchangeRisksDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesOutstandingDerivativesUsedToHedgeForeignExchangeRisksDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesOutstandingDerivativesUsedToHedgeForeignExchangeRisksDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/invest/2013/invest-2013-01-31.xsd#invest_DerivativeNotionalAmount" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="invest_DerivativeNotionalAmount" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_USDollarBritishPoundMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_USDollarBritishPoundMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_ForeignCurrencyHedgingMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_ForeignCurrencyHedgingMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShortMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PositionDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PositionDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PositionDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PositionDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PositionAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PositionAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_BritishPoundEuroMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_BritishPoundEuroMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_USDollarEuroMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_USDollarEuroMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_CanadianDollarUSDollarMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_CanadianDollarUSDollarMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_EuroUSDollarMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_EuroUSDollarMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_UsDollarCanadianDollarMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_UsDollarCanadianDollarMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_BritishPoundPhilippinePesoMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_BritishPoundPhilippinePesoMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_EuroPhilippinePesoMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_EuroPhilippinePesoMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_PhilippinePesoEuroMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_PhilippinePesoEuroMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_EuroBritishPoundMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_EuroBritishPoundMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_PhilippinePesoBritishPoundMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_PhilippinePesoBritishPoundMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" order="10300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" order="10330.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_PhilippinePesoBritishPoundMember" order="10350.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_EuroBritishPoundMember" order="10370.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_PhilippinePesoEuroMember" order="10390.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_EuroPhilippinePesoMember" order="10410.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_BritishPoundPhilippinePesoMember" order="10430.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_UsDollarCanadianDollarMember" order="10450.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_EuroUSDollarMember" order="10470.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_CanadianDollarUSDollarMember" order="10490.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_USDollarEuroMember" order="10530.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_BritishPoundEuroMember" order="10550.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" order="10560.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" order="10590.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" order="10610.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PositionAxis" order="10820.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PositionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PositionDomain_2" order="10830.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PositionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PositionDomain" order="10850.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PositionDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortMember" order="10870.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PositionDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongMember" order="10930.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:to="glt_ForeignCurrencyHedgingMember" order="11130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_USDollarBritishPoundMember" order="11250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" order="11370.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosuresLineItems" xlink:to="invest_DerivativeNotionalAmount" order="11580.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesFairValuesOfDerivativeInstrumentsDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesFairValuesOfDerivativeInstrumentsDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesFairValuesOfDerivativeInstrumentsDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiabilityAmountNotOffsetAgainstCollateral" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiabilityAmountNotOffsetAgainstCollateral" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAssetAmountNotOffsetAgainstCollateral" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAssetAmountNotOffsetAgainstCollateral" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCurrentLiabilitiesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpensesAndOtherCurrentAssetsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpensesAndOtherCurrentAssetsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValuesDerivativesBalanceSheetLocationByDerivativeContractTypeByHedgingDesignationTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValuesDerivativesBalanceSheetLocationByDerivativeContractTypeByHedgingDesignationTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativesFairValueLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativesFairValueLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativesFairValueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValuesDerivativesBalanceSheetLocationByDerivativeContractTypeByHedgingDesignationTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValuesDerivativesBalanceSheetLocationByDerivativeContractTypeByHedgingDesignationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValuesDerivativesBalanceSheetLocationByDerivativeContractTypeByHedgingDesignationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" order="10100.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValuesDerivativesBalanceSheetLocationByDerivativeContractTypeByHedgingDesignationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_2" order="10190.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpensesAndOtherCurrentAssetsMember" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCurrentLiabilitiesMember" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativesFairValueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAssetAmountNotOffsetAgainstCollateral" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativesFairValueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiabilityAmountNotOffsetAgainstCollateral" order="10600.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesIncomeOrLossFromDerivativeInstrumentsRecognizedInResultsOfOperationsDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesIncomeOrLossFromDerivativeInstrumentsRecognizedInResultsOfOperationsDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureFinancialDerivativesAndHedgingActivitiesIncomeOrLossFromDerivativeInstrumentsRecognizedInResultsOfOperationsDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeGainLossOnDerivativeNet" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeGainLossOnDerivativeNet" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeIneffectivePortionAndAmountExcludedFromEffectivenessTestingNet" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeIneffectivePortionAndAmountExcludedFromEffectivenessTestingNet" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" order="10100.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_2" order="10110.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" order="10200.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" order="10250.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" order="10290.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeIneffectivePortionAndAmountExcludedFromEffectivenessTestingNet" order="10400.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeGainLossOnDerivativeNet" order="10480.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCommitmentsContingenciesAndLegalProceedingsAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureCommitmentsContingenciesAndLegalProceedingsAdditionalInformationDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureCommitmentsContingenciesAndLegalProceedingsAdditionalInformationDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccrualForEnvironmentalLossContingenciesIncreaseDecreaseForRevisionInEstimates" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccrualForEnvironmentalLossContingenciesIncreaseDecreaseForRevisionInEstimates" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AccruedEnvironmentalLossContingenciesRemainingAmount" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AccruedEnvironmentalLossContingenciesRemainingAmount" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedEnvironmentalLossContingenciesCurrent" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedEnvironmentalLossContingenciesCurrent" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DifferenceRecordedInEscrowAccount" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DifferenceRecordedInEscrowAccount" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_TermOfAgreementWithThirdParty" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_TermOfAgreementWithThirdParty" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_PeriodOverWhichCashExpenditureToBeIncurred" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_PeriodOverWhichCashExpenditureToBeIncurred" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_PaymentsForGovernmentsUnreimbursedPastCosts" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_PaymentsForGovernmentsUnreimbursedPastCosts" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_SettlementPayableDate" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_SettlementPayableDate" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LitigationSettlementAmountAwardedToOtherParty" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementAmountAwardedToOtherParty" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_ExpectedCleanupWorkContinuationPeriodDescription" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_ExpectedCleanupWorkContinuationPeriodDescription" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_EstimatedCostOfCleanupWork" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_EstimatedCostOfCleanupWork" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_NumberOfOperableUnits" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_NumberOfOperableUnits" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DecemberTwoThousandNineLongTermMonitoringPlanMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DecemberTwoThousandNineLongTermMonitoringPlanMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_GlatfelterConsentDecreeMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_GlatfelterConsentDecreeMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_GeorgiaPacificConsumerProductsLPMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_GeorgiaPacificConsumerProductsLPMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_DownstreamMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_DownstreamMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_2" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:to="srt_LitigationCaseAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseAxis" xlink:to="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_2" order="10050.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseAxis" xlink:to="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:to="glt_DownstreamMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="10120.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="10150.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="glt_GeorgiaPacificConsumerProductsLPMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" order="10180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain_2" order="10190.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" order="10210.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="glt_GlatfelterConsentDecreeMember" order="10230.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" order="10240.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" order="10270.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" order="10290.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" order="10310.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" order="10320.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_2" order="10330.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" order="10350.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="glt_DecemberTwoThousandNineLongTermMonitoringPlanMember" order="10370.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" order="10380.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" order="10410.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" order="10430.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" order="10440.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" order="10470.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" order="10490.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_NumberOfOperableUnits" order="10520.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_EstimatedCostOfCleanupWork" order="10570.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_ExpectedCleanupWorkContinuationPeriodDescription" order="10610.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementAmountAwardedToOtherParty" order="10680.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_SettlementPayableDate" order="10700.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_PaymentsForGovernmentsUnreimbursedPastCosts" order="10750.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_PeriodOverWhichCashExpenditureToBeIncurred" order="10800.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_TermOfAgreementWithThirdParty" order="10820.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_DifferenceRecordedInEscrowAccount" order="10840.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedEnvironmentalLossContingenciesCurrent" order="10890.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_AccruedEnvironmentalLossContingenciesRemainingAmount" order="10910.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_CommitmentsContingenciesAndLitigationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccrualForEnvironmentalLossContingenciesIncreaseDecreaseForRevisionInEstimates" order="10930.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationScheduleOfFinancialAndOtherInformationBySegmentDetail" xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#Role_DisclosureSegmentInformationScheduleOfFinancialAndOtherInformationBySegmentDetail" xlink:type="simple" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.glatfelter.com/20190930/taxonomy/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationScheduleOfFinancialAndOtherInformationBySegmentDetail">
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AmountOfTonsSold" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AmountOfTonsSold" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_SupplementaryDataAbstract" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_SupplementaryDataAbstract" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GrossProfit" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_GrossProfit" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfCostGoodOrServiceExtensibleList" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfCostGoodOrServiceExtensibleList" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfRevenueExtensibleList" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfRevenueExtensibleList" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_AirlaidMaterialsMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_AirlaidMaterialsMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="glt-20190930.xsd#glt_CompositeFibersMember" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="glt_CompositeFibersMember" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" />
    <link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:type="locator" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" order="10010.00" priority="2" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" order="10040.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" order="10070.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:to="glt_CompositeFibersMember" order="10090.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:to="glt_AirlaidMaterialsMember" order="10130.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportingUnitDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember" order="10170.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" order="10380.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfRevenueExtensibleList" order="10540.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold" order="10700.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfCostGoodOrServiceExtensibleList" order="10860.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GrossProfit" order="11020.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" order="11180.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" order="11340.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" order="11500.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" order="11660.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" order="11820.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:to="glt_SupplementaryDataAbstract" order="11980.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_SupplementaryDataAbstract" xlink:to="glt_AmountOfTonsSold" order="12300.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_SupplementaryDataAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" order="12460.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="glt_SupplementaryDataAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets" order="12620.00" priority="2" use="optional" />
  </link:definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>
