Payden is a unique and distinctive male given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "McPayden," which is believed to have originated from the Gaelic personal name "Mac Paydín." This name was likely first used as a nickname or byname for someone who had a reddish complexion or appearance, as "Paydin" is thought to mean "little red-haired person."
The use of Payden as a given name appears to be relatively modern. While it has not been widely popular throughout history, there are records of its use dating back to at least the 19th century in Scotland and other parts of the United Kingdom. However, it was not until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that Payden began to gain popularity as a first name, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Today, Payden is considered an alternative spelling or variation of the more traditional Scottish name "Payton." While Payton has been consistently popular throughout recent decades, appearing among the top 1000 boys' names in many years, Payden has only begun to appear on popularity charts since the late 2000s. As of 2020, Payden ranked among the top 500 boys' names in the United States.
Despite its relatively recent emergence as a popular given name, Payden carries with it a rich history and cultural significance rooted in its Scottish origins. Its unique spelling and sound make it stand out among other Scottish boy's names, offering parents an interesting and distinctive option for their children. Whether drawn to its meaning or simply appreciating its distinctiveness, those who choose the name Payden are likely to be selecting a name that is both meaningful and memorable.
The given statistics show the annual number of births with the name Payden in the United States from 1992 to 2023. The data reveals a trend where the popularity of this name peaked around the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the highest number of births occurring in 2008 (52 births). After this peak, there has been a steady decline in the usage of the name Payden, reaching its lowest point recently with only 6 births recorded in 2020. The total number of Payden births over this period is 686.
It's fascinating to observe how naming trends can fluctuate over time, and these statistics provide an insight into the popularity trajectory of the name Payden in the United States over three decades.