Holden Boy

Popularity: #266 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationHOHL-dən / /ˈhoʊldən/

English; Old English

Meaning

From the hollow in the valley; deep valley

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Holden has roots in Old English, derived from the elements 'hol' meaning 'hollow' and 'denu' meaning 'valley'. It gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the United States. The name is often associated with literary references, notably in J.D. Salinger's novel 'The Catcher in the Rye', where the protagonist is named Holden Caulfield. This association has contributed to its appeal in modern culture.

Trend Summary

Holden has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Holden

International Variants

Famous people named Holden

Holden Caulfield is the main character in J.D. Salinger's novel 'The Catcher in the Rye', representing teenage angst and rebellion.

Holden McNeil is a character in Kevin Smith's film 'Chasing Amy', known for his struggles with love and friendship.

Holden Thorp is an American academic and former chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Holden Richards is a notable American entrepreneur known for his contributions to the tech industry.

Fictional characters named Holden

Holden Caulfield is the protagonist in 'The Catcher in the Rye', exploring themes of identity and alienation.

Holden McNeil appears in 'Chasing Amy', navigating complex relationships and personal growth.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Holden was first seen in the United States in 1902. Holden has ranked as high as #370 nationally, which occurred in 2018, and has been most popular in Texas, California, North Carolina, Ohio, and Florida. In the past 5 years the name Holden has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Holden (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 92
8%
NC 68
6%
OH 67
6%
CA 63
6%
PA 53
5%
MI 44
4%
VA 42
4%
GA 40
4%
IN 38
3%
FL 37
3%
TN 37
3%
AL 35
3%
IL 30
3%
MN 29
3%
WA 28
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19025
19135
19147
19156
19175
19185
192010
192111
192211
192311
19245
19276
19289
19295
19318
19326
19355
19365
19375
19385
19406
19415
19426
19435
19475
19495
19516
19536
19545
19557
19567
19577
19589
19608
19618
19628
19639
19645
19659
19666
19688
19699
19736
19758
19767
19775
197812
19796
198011
19819
198212
19837
198417
198515
198658
1987107
1988143
1989146
1990182
1991234
1992224
1993267
1994298
1995299
1996323
1997451
1998562
1999542
2000527
2001547
2002614
2003619
2004747
2005830
2006777
2007812
2008877
2009955
20101,011
20111,114
20121,177
20131,206
20141,218
20151,254
20161,356
20171,531
20181,731
20191,466
20201,648
20211,506
20221,219
20231,176
20241,205