Holden is a boy’s name of English origin, meaning “hollow valley.” This name gained popularity in the mid-20th century, largely due to the character Holden Caulfield in J.D. Salinger’s novel “The Catcher in the Rye.” The name has a strong, classic feel with a touch of modernity.

Origin: English
Meaning: Hollow valley
Gender: Primarily male
Popularity: Holden has been steadily rising in popularity since the 1990s. As of 2024, it ranks in the top 300 names for boys in the United States.

Holden exudes a sense of strength and individuality. It’s often associated with intelligence and a slightly rebellious spirit, thanks to its literary connection. The name has a pleasant sound and is easy to pronounce, making it appealing to many parents.

Notable people with this name include Holden Caulfield (fictional character), Holden Radcliffe (character from Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), and Holden Ford (character from the Netflix series Mindhunter).