What does Bolden mean and where does it come from?
Initially a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, Bolden signifies bravery or fearlessness. It has transitioned into a first name most recently in the United States. Notable figures with the surname Bolden include Charles Bolden, an NASA astronaut and administrator. The use of Bolden as a first name aligns
Cultural significance
Bolden has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1026 in 1893 — currently #1103 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Bolden?
Bolden works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Bolden Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Bolden Rose
Floral · soft ending
Bolden Mae
Sweet · timeless
Bolden Claire
French influence · crisp
Bolden Jane
Literary · strong
Bolden Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Bolden right now?
Holding steady — currently #1103 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1103 | 1,097 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1108 | 1,077 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1113 | 1,047 | ▲ up 11009 · +20840% births |
| 2015 | #12122 | 5 | ▼ down 8386 |
| 1935 | #3736 | 5 | ▲ up 170 |
| 1915 | #3906 | 5 | — |
The story of Bolden
Bolden has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. With 61 total births recorded, Bolden remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3906 in 1915 to #1103 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Bolden in 1893:
Bolden by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 6 | |
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 13 | |
| 1930s | 11 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 2010s ★ | 16 | |
💎Bolden has only 61 total recorded births since 1893 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Bolden?
What names sound and feel like Bolden?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Bolden also consider these
Common questions about the name Bolden
What does the name Bolden mean?
Bolden means "English" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Bolden?
Bolden is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Bolden?
Bolden originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Bolden?
Bolden is a two-syllable name pronounced B OW1 L D AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Bolden a common or rare name?
Bolden is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.