Holden

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Holden

Gender Boy
Origin English
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation HOHL-duhn

Holden, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.

Meaning of Holden

Hollow in the valley

Holden is of English origin and is derived from the Old English name Haldan, meaning “valley of the holders of land” or “grassy valley”.

Save
Rate:
(3.2/5 from 5 votes)
Meaning Hollow in the valley
Origin English
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #281 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Uncommon (Top 500)
Era Modern (peaked 2018)

Background & History of The Name Holden

The name Holden originates from England and has various meanings and associations. One of the meanings of Holden is derived from the Old English word "hold," which means "a ruler or a powerful person." Consequently, Holden can be interpreted to signify strength, authority, and leadership. The name also has Germanic roots, derived from the words "holt" and "hald," which mean "a wooded area" or "a place where people gather." This interpretation of Holden represents a connection to nature and community.

Holden gained popularity as a given name in the 20th century, especially in English-speaking countries. This can be attributed to its appearance in J.D. Salinger's classic novel, "The Catcher in the Rye," where the main character is named Holden Caulfield. The character of Holden Caulfield has become an iconic figure associated with adolescent angst and rebellion. As a result, the name Holden is often associated with youthful resilience, individuality, and nonconformity.

In recent years, the name Holden has experienced a resurgence in popularity. It is seen as a fresh and distinctive choice for parents seeking a strong and modern name for their children. Its evocative sound and positive connotations make it appealing to many. Holden also has a masculine and rugged quality to it, further adding to its appeal.

Overall, the name Holden is versatile, carrying meanings of power, connection, resilience, and individuality. With its strong historical and literary associations, it continues to captivate individuals as a name that stands out and represents unique qualities.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Holden over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Holden would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Holden.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names