Origin and Meaning of Madden

Little dog or beneficent

Origin: Irish - Derived from the Irish surname 'O'Madáin', which is a diminutive of 'madra', meaning 'dog'. The name has connotations of pleasantness and is associated with loyalty.

• Madden is traditionally an Irish surname that has transitioned into a popular given name in recent years, particularly in the United States.
• In Irish culture, surnames often reflect lineage or traits of the ancestral family, which in this case emphasizes traits associated with dogs, such as loyalty and companionship.
• Notable bearers of the name include John Madden, the famous American football coach and sports commentator, which has helped to popularize the name in modern times.
• Madden has seen a rise in popularity in the 21st century, particularly among boys, appearing in the top 1000 names in the U.S. since the late 1990s.
• Variations of the name include Madan and Madin, although Madden remains the most recognized form.