Alden
Alden is a boy name of Old English origin meaning “Old friend”, pronounced AWL-den. It ranked #598 in the United States in 2025, given to 479 babies, and peaked at #426 in 1911. Common nicknames: Al, Denny, Aldy.
How popular is Alden in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Alden mean, and where does it come from?
Alden descends from the Old English Ealdwine — eald, "old," and wine, "friend" — a name that survived the Norman Conquest as a surname and came back centuries later as a first name. Its American history runs through John Alden, the cooper on the Mayflower who signed the compact and whose courtship Longfellow turned into a popular poem, which is why Alden reads as early New England to American ears. The sound is the modern appeal: it sits in the same family as Holden, Camden and Aiden, but it is older than any of them and means something plainer and warmer than most.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Alden
- Alden Ehrenreich — American actor who played the young Han Solo in Solo: A Star Wars Story
- John Alden — Mayflower passenger and signatory of the Mayflower Compact
- Alden Richards — Filipino actor and television host
Similar Names to Alden
If you like Alden, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Alden
Looking for names that pair well with Alden? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Alden mean?
Alden is a boy name of Old English origin meaning "Old friend." Alden descends from the Old English Ealdwine — eald, "old," and wine, "friend" — a name that survived the Norman Conquest as a surname and came back centuries later as a first name. Its American history runs through John Alden, the cooper on the Mayflower who signed the compact and whose courtship Longfellow turned into a popular poem, which is why Alden reads as early New England to American ears.
How do you pronounce Alden?
Alden is pronounced AWL-den. Common variations include Aldin, Aldan, Aldyn.
Is Alden a boy name?
Yes, Alden is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Al, Denny, Aldy.