Holden Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Holden
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name HOLDEN. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Holden
Gender
Male
Origin
Christian
Lucky Number
4
Meaning of the Name
Holden is a masculine name of English origin meaning 'from the hollow in the valley.' In Christian naming contexts, it evokes themes of shelter and protection while maintaining its traditional English heritage.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Uranus (Rahu)
Positive Nature
Strong sense of order, loyal, practical, and disciplined.
Negative Traits
Stubborn, overly serious, rigid, and prone to feeling restricted.
Lucky Colours
Blue, gray.
Lucky Days
Saturday.
Lucky Stones
Blue sapphire.
Harmony Numbers
1, 7, 8.
Best Suited Professions
Managers, engineers, accountants, organizers.
What People Like About You
Dependability, discipline, practicality.
Famous People Named Holden
Holden Caulfield
Literary Character
Iconic protagonist representing teenage alienation in 'The Catcher in the Rye'
William Holden
Actor
Oscar-winning Hollywood star known for classic films spanning three decades
Holden Karnofsky
Philanthropist
Pioneered effective altruism movement through GiveWell and Open Philanthropy
Holden Roberto
Political Leader
Founding father of Angolan nationalism and liberation movement leader
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Extended Personality Analysis
People named Holden are commonly characterized by their strong sense of individuality and resistance to conformity. They often possess keen observational abilities that allow them to detect insincerity or hypocrisy, making them naturally skeptical of authority and social conventions. This trait can manifest as either refreshing honesty or challenging bluntness depending on context. Drawing from the literary archetype, many Holdens demonstrate a protective nature, particularly toward those they perceive as vulnerable or innocent. They tend to be introspective and may struggle with feelings of isolation when their values conflict with mainstream expectations. Despite sometimes appearing cynical, they typically maintain deep idealism and moral convictions that guide their actions. Their combination of intelligence, authenticity, and protective instincts often makes them loyal friends and principled individuals who march to their own drum while safeguarding what they consider truly valuable.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Holden maintains a stable presence as a recognizable but not overly common masculine name. It peaked in popularity during the 1990s and early 2000s, coinciding with a generation of parents who valued its literary heritage and distinctive yet traditional sound. Current usage trends show it settling into the 300-400 range for boy names in the United States, with similar rankings in other English-speaking countries. The name appeals particularly to educated, literary-minded parents who appreciate its association with authenticity and moral complexity. While its direct connection to 'The Catcher in the Rye' has somewhat faded with newer generations, the cultural resonance remains, making it a choice that balances classic English naming traditions with countercultural credibility. Its steady but moderate popularity suggests it will remain in use without becoming trendy or dated.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Holden embodies the concept of sheltered depth—the hollow valley of its origin represents both physical protection and psychological introspection. This geographical metaphor extends to emotional resilience and the capacity to provide sanctuary for ideas, values, and people. The literary association adds layers of symbolism around authenticity, moral vigilance, and the protection of innocence. Like a valley that collects water to sustain life, Holden symbolizes gathering wisdom and nurturing truth away from society's exposed heights. The name also represents the tension between worldly experience and idealistic preservation—the 'catcher' who stands between childhood innocence and the precipice of adult compromise. Ultimately, Holden signifies depth with purpose, skepticism with compassion, and individuality with protective responsibility.