“valley of the Welshman” — Associated with writer Henry David Thoreau
English origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#2475US 2023
55Births / yr
↑Rising
1.3kAll-time births
📅 Since 190800
How to pronounce Walden
WAW·ldun
/ˈwɔ.ldən/ · stress on WAW · 2 syllables
“valley of the Welshman”
Associated with writer Henry David Thoreau · English origin
What does Walden mean and where does it come from?
Walden is derived from Old English elements, meaning 'valley' and 'Welshman' or 'foreigner.' It is perhaps most famously associated with writer Henry David Thoreau, who lived at Walden Pond in Massachusetts, which inspired his book 'Walden' that reflects on simple living in natural surroundings. The
Cultural significance
Walden has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of valley of the welshman.
Peak popularity
Reached #1498 in 1915 — currently #2475 in the US.
Rising fast — up 855 spots — currently #2475 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#2475 · Top 1.8%
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1980
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2475
55
▲ up 855 · +53% births
2022
#3330
36
▲ up 316 · +16% births
2021
#3646
31
▼ down 903 · -30% births
2020
#2743
44
▲ up 222 · +13% births
2015
#2965
39
▲ up 2089 · +117% births
2010
#5054
18
▲ up 3303 · +125% births
2005
#8357
8
▼ down 89 · +14% births
2000
#8268
7
▲ up 708 · +40% births
1995
#8976
5
▼ down 3340 · -17% births
1980
#5636
6
▼ down 2029 · -25% births
1970
#3607
8
▲ up 438 · +60% births
1965
#4045
5
▼ down 1294 · -50% births
1960
#2751
10
▼ down 662 · -33% births
1955
#2089
15
▲ up 421 · +50% births
1950
#2510
10
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Walden
1915Rank #1498
55
#3714
↘Falling
1915 - 202322 years
The story of Walden
Walden entered American naming records in 1908 and has been in use for over 116 years. With 1,329 total births recorded, Walden remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1498 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #2475 in 2023.
Walden means "valley of the Welshman" — a name rooted in English 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 Walden?
Walden is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Walden have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Walden?
Walden originates from English tradition. English 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 Walden?
Walden is a two-syllable name pronounced W AO1 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 Walden trending right now?
Walden is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Walden
For a sister
Walden & Ruby♡
Walden & Emmett♡
Walden & June♡
Walden & Prince♡
For a brother
Walden & Jack♡
Walden & Emmett♡
Walden & June♡
Walden & Prince♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#2475
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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