Glenden is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "gleann" which means "valley". The suffix "-den" is also of Scottish origin, and it generally refers to a valley or a place where water flows.
The name Glenden has a rich history in Scotland. It was popular among the Highland clans, particularly among the Mackenzies and the Campbells. According to some sources, the name may have been associated with specific locations in the Highlands, such as Glen Dochart in Perthshire or Glendale in Sutherland.
Over time, the name has evolved and become more widely recognized beyond its Scottish roots. Today, it is considered a unisex name, although it was traditionally used more often for boys. Despite its increasing popularity, Glenden remains relatively rare, making it a unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
In terms of its meaning, Glenden signifies strength and resilience, qualities that are often associated with the Scottish Highlands. The valley symbolism also adds a touch of tranquility to the name, suggesting a harmony between strength and peace.
Overall, Glenden is an interesting and uncommon name with a rich history and meaningful significance. Its Scottish origins add a touch of heritage and tradition to the name, while its unisex nature makes it a versatile choice for parents looking for something different.
The name Glenden has seen a varied history of popularity in the United States over the past century, with peaks and valleys in its usage.
In the early 20th century, Glenden was quite popular, with eight births recorded in 1915 alone. This number fluctuated throughout the next few decades, with six births in 1917, five births between 1921 and 1923, five births in 1925, five births in both 1928 and 1929, six births in 1935, five births in 1936, six births in 1938, five births in 1939, and finally another six births in 1940.
The middle of the century saw a decline in the popularity of the name Glenden. There were only five births each in 1943 and 1948. However, there was a significant increase in its usage in 1975, with twelve births recorded that year.
The latter part of the 20th century saw another decline, with only five births each in 1988 and 2012. This brings the total number of births for the name Glenden in the United States to 104 over this period.
Despite these fluctuations, it's clear that the name Glenden has had a unique and enduring presence in the United States, with parents choosing it for their children across several decades.