All about the name

Auden

Female

« Auden is a rare English given name derived from Old English 'Œaden', meaning 'little wealth' or 'little prosperity'. It gained recognition through poet W.H. Auden. »

#2017 last year

Meaning, origin, history

Auden is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "Œaden," which means "little wealth" or "little prosperity." This name was once popular among the Anglo-Saxons, but it has since fallen out of common use. The name Auden first gained notable recognition through the works of poet W.H. Auden. He was a prominent figure in the literary world during the mid-20th century and is considered one of the greatest poets of his time. His poetry often explored themes of politics, love, and philosophy, and he was known for his innovative use of language and form. In addition to his contributions to literature, W.H. Auden also had an impact on the name's popularity. Before him, Auden was not a widely used given name. However, after his works gained prominence and critical acclaim, the name began to appear more frequently in birth records. Today, while still relatively uncommon, Auden is recognized as a name with literary roots and a unique historical significance. In recent years, there has been some renewed interest in the name Auden due to its use by notable public figures. For example, musician Sufjan Stevens named his son Auden in 2012. This further contributes to the growing awareness and appreciation of this distinctive English name. Overall, Auden is a name with a rich history and literary heritage. Its unique meaning and origin make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Auden since 1880

Total births
863
Total since 1880
Peak year
2023
97 births
in 2023
97
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+68%
vs previous 5 years