Holden

What does the baby name Holden mean? Learn about what Holden means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Holden - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Holden: H-O-L-D-E-N, is a 6-letter female given name.
Meaning of Holden: Kindly, gracious.
Origin of Holden: The name 'Holden' has its origins in the English language. It is derived from an English surname, which in turn originated as a patronymic name meaning 'son of Holda'. The surname 'Holden' can be traced back to medieval England, where it was commonly used to denote a person 's familial connection to someone named Holda.; Swiss Names
Popularity of Holden: The name 'Holden' has gained popularity over the years, particularly in English-speaking countries. It has been consistently used as a given name for boys, but it has also gained some usage as a girl 's name. While not among the most popular names, 'Holden' has maintained a steady level of usage, often chosen for its unique and distinctive sound.; Holden currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Etymology of Holden

The etymology of 'Holden' can be understood by examining its Old English roots. The name is composed of two elements: 'hol' and 'denu'. 'Hol' means 'hollow' or 'deep valley', while 'denu' refers to a 'valley' or 'dell'. Therefore, 'Holden' can be interpreted as 'deep valley' or 'hollow dell'. This etymology reflects the name 's connection to the natural landscape and geographical features.

Cultural Significance of Holden

While 'Holden' does not hold significant cultural or historical meaning, it has become a part of popular culture through its association with J.D. Salinger 's novel 'The Catcher in the Rye'. The protagonist of the novel, Holden Caulfield, has become an iconic literary character, and the name 'Holden' is often associated with his rebellious and introspective nature.