Holden
Holden is a boy name of English origin meaning “Hollow valley”, pronounced HOHL-den. It ranked #297 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,140 babies, and peaked at #217 in 2018. Common nicknames: Holdy, Den.
How popular is Holden 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 Holden mean, and where does it come from?
Holden is an English place name derived from the Old English elements "hol" (hollow) and "denu" (valley). Several locations in England bear the name, including Holden in Lancashire. The name's most famous literary association is Holden Caulfield, the restless teenage protagonist of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye, one of the most influential novels of the 20th century. This literary connection gives the name a rebellious, intellectual quality. Holden has been climbing steadily in popularity since the 1990s, appealing to parents who appreciate literary names with a strong, classic sound.
How is Holden used around the world?
Holden is used in 1 languages worldwide.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Holden?
Famous People Named Holden
- Holden Caulfield — protagonist of The Catcher in the Rye
- William Holden — American actor
- Holden Commodore — iconic Australian car brand
Similar Names to Holden
If you like Holden, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Holden
Looking for names that pair well with Holden? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Holden mean?
Holden is a boy name of English origin meaning "Hollow valley." Holden is an English place name derived from the Old English elements "hol" (hollow) and "denu" (valley). Several locations in England bear the name, including Holden in Lancashire.
How do you pronounce Holden?
Holden is pronounced HOHL-den. Common variations include Holdin, Holdan.
Is Holden a boy name?
Yes, Holden is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Holdy, Den.