Origin and Meaning of Hayden

Hay's valley

Origin: English - Derived from the Old English surname Hægdun, which means 'hay' + 'hill or valley'. It has also been used as a given name in modern times.

• Hayden has evolved from a surname to a popular first name in the late 20th century, reflecting a trend towards surname-based first names.
• The name is used in various cultures and often seen as unisex, although it is more commonly given to boys.
• Notable bearers of the name include actor Hayden Christensen, known for his role as Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars franchise, and actress Hayden Panettiere.
• Hayden has seen a rise in popularity in the United States, ranking in the top 100 names for boys and girls during the 2000s.
• Variants and related names include Haiden, Haydn, and Haydenna for female forms.