When expecting a baby, choosing the perfect name can be exciting yet overwhelming. One popular name that has been gaining popularity over the years is Braden. But what does Braden mean? Where did it come from? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the meaning and origin of the name Braden.
What is the Meaning of Braden?
The name Braden is of Scottish origin and means “broad valley”. It is derived from two Gaelic words: “brath” which means “large” or “broad”, and “denu” which means “valley”. As such, the name Braden is mainly associated with wide, open spaces, and natural surroundings.
Popularity of Braden
In recent years, the name Braden has become increasingly popular in the United States and other English-speaking countries. According to the Social Security Administration, Braden was ranked 216th in popularity for boys’ names in 2020. It ranked even higher in previous years, reaching as high as 122nd in 2005.
Famous People Named Braden
There are several famous people named Braden who have made a significant impact in their respective fields. Here are some notable examples:
Braden Holtby
Braden Holtby is a professional ice hockey goaltender who currently plays for the Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League (NHL). He has won numerous awards, including the Vezina Trophy in 2016, given to the league’s top goaltender.
Braden Looper
Braden Looper is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for several teams during his career, including the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Mets. He also won a World Series championship with the Cardinals in 2006.
Braden Rivero
Braden Rivero is a popular TikTok star who has gained millions of followers for his comedy skits and dance videos. He is known for his unique sense of humor and creative content.
Variations of Braden
While the name Braden remains popular in its original form, there are also several variations of the name that have emerged over time. These include:
Brayden
Brayden is a variation of Braden that has become even more popular than the original name. It has a similar meaning, derived from the same Gaelic roots. In 2020, Brayden was ranked 29th in popularity for boys’ names in the United States.
Bradyn
Bradyn is another variation of Braden that has gained some popularity in recent years. It is similar to the original name but with a slightly different spelling.
Conclusion
In summary, the name Braden is of Scottish origin and means “broad valley”. It has become increasingly popular in recent years and has been associated with several famous people across various fields. While the name remains popular in its original form, there are also several variations, such as Brayden and Bradyn, that have emerged over time.
FAQs About the Name Braden
Here are some frequently asked questions about the name Braden:
- Is Braden a unisex name?
No, Braden is typically seen as a masculine name, although it can technically be used for either gender.
- What is the nickname for Braden?
Common nicknames for Braden include Brad and Brady.
- Does the name Braden have any significant meaning in specific cultures or religions?
No, the name Braden doesn’t hold any significant religious or cultural meanings.
- How do you pronounce Braden?
The name Braden is pronounced BRA-din.
- Are there any famous female Brade(n)s?
While the name Braden is typically associated with males, there are several notable females with variations of the name, including Braeden Wright and Bradyn Webb.

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.