Auden Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: AW-den //ˈɔː.dən//
Origin: Old English; German
Meaning: Old English: 'wealthy friend'; German: 'noble friend'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Auden has its roots in Old English, derived from the elements "ald" meaning "old" or "wise" and "wine" meaning "friend". This etymological combination suggests a meaning akin to "old friend" or "wise friend".
The name is believed to have evolved through various forms, with its earliest occurrences likely found in Anglo-Saxon England. It entered the English lexicon as a surname before being adopted as a given name in the 20th century, particularly influenced by the notable poet W.
H. Auden, who brought the name into broader cultural awareness in the mid-20th century.
Historically, the name Auden can be traced back to the medieval period, where it was used as a surname in England. The surname was borne by several notable figures, although it did not achieve widespread recognition until the 20th century.
W. H.
Auden, born in 1907, was a significant literary figure whose works contributed to the name's association with creativity and intellect. His poetry often explored themes of love, politics, and the human condition, which resonated with audiences and helped to elevate the name's profile.
Culturally, the name Auden carries connotations of wisdom and friendship, reflecting its Old English roots. The association with W.
H. Auden has also imbued the name with a sense of artistic and intellectual depth.
The name's unique sound and historical background contribute to its enduring appeal, making it a distinctive choice for those who appreciate its literary connections. While diminutive forms of the name are less common, the name Auden itself stands out for its strong historical and cultural significance.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Auden was first seen in the United States in 1975. Auden has ranked as high as #1228 nationally, which occurred in 2020, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Auden has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Auden (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 6 | |
| TX | 6 | |
| WI | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1975 | 6 |
| 1976 | 6 |
| 1991 | 7 |
| 1993 | 12 |
| 1994 | 12 |
| 1995 | 8 |
| 1996 | 9 |
| 1997 | 10 |
| 1998 | 12 |
| 1999 | 10 |
| 2000 | 16 |
| 2001 | 17 |
| 2002 | 22 |
| 2003 | 43 |
| 2004 | 33 |
| 2005 | 30 |
| 2006 | 42 |
| 2007 | 57 |
| 2008 | 52 |
| 2009 | 44 |
| 2010 | 51 |
| 2011 | 60 |
| 2012 | 63 |
| 2013 | 82 |
| 2014 | 97 |
| 2015 | 90 |
| 2016 | 104 |
| 2017 | 96 |
| 2018 | 104 |
| 2019 | 116 |
| 2020 | 128 |
| 2021 | 103 |
| 2022 | 90 |
| 2023 | 80 |
| 2024 | 84 |