Harden is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word "hard," which means strong or brave. The name Harden is believed to have been used as a surname initially, referring to someone who was robust or had a hardy nature. Over time, it has evolved into a given name, although it remains relatively uncommon.
There are no specific historical figures associated with the name Harden, but it has been used in literature and popular culture. For instance, Harden is the name of a character in Charles Dickens' novel "Dombey and Son." In more recent times, Harden has been used as a given name by some families who appreciate its strong and masculine connotation.
Despite its English origin, the name Harden does not have any specific religious or cultural significance. It is simply a name that denotes strength and bravery, qualities that are universally valued. Today, parents may choose the name Harden for their children as a way to express their hopes for them to grow up to be strong and courageous individuals.
In terms of popularity, Harden has never been a common name in the United States or other English-speaking countries. According to data from the Social Security Administration, there were only eight babies named Harden in the U.S. in 2019, making it one of the rarest boys' names that year.
Overall, Harden is a unique and distinctive given name with an interesting history and a meaningful origin. While it may not be as well-known as some other English names, its strong and brave connotation makes it a appealing choice for parents who want to give their children a memorable and meaningful name.
The name Harden has been given to a total of 713 babies born in the United States since 1893, with fluctuations in its popularity over time.
In the early 20th century, there were occasional years when the name was given to more than five babies. The peak occurred in 1921 with 81 births. However, from the late 1940s onwards, the number of babies named Harden began to decline significantly.
From 1953 until 2003, there were only five or fewer Hardens born each year. It wasn't until 2012 that we saw another spike in popularity with eight births. Since then, the name has gained some traction again, with double-digit birth numbers recorded annually between 2018 and 2023.
The most recent data shows that in 2023 alone, there have been 38 babies named Harden born in the United States, indicating a renewed interest in this unique moniker. Despite its ups and downs over the years, it's clear that the name Harden continues to capture the attention of some parents seeking distinctive baby names.