Origin and Meaning of Dryden

From the dry valley

Origin: English - The name Dryden is derived from Old English elements 'dryge,' meaning 'dry,' and 'denu,' meaning 'valley.' It originally referred to a geographical feature.

• Dryden is both a surname and a given name, often associated with English poet John Dryden, who was the poet laureate of England in the late 17th century.
• The name has gained popularity as a first name in recent decades, particularly in English-speaking countries.
• Notable figures bearing the name include John Dryden (1631-1700), a significant literary figure in the English Restoration period.
• While once primarily a surname, Dryden has seen a rise in usage as a first name in the 21st century, influenced by modern naming trends.
• Variations of the name within English-speaking cultures may include Drydan and Dreden, although these are less common.