Arden

unisexEnglish

Arden is an unisex name of English, from Celtic origin, meaning “High; from the Forest of Arden”.

MeaningHigh; from the Forest of Arden
GenderUnisex
OriginEnglish, from Celtic
PronunciationAR-den
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Arden

Arden is an English surname taken from the Forest of Arden in Warwickshire, a place name generally traced to a Celtic word meaning 'high' or 'highland'. The forest is the setting of Shakespeare's 'As You Like It', and Shakespeare's mother was Mary Arden. As a first name it is used for both boys and girls, especially in the United States.

Is Arden a religious name?

Arden has no religious background; it is a secular place-name and surname.

How popular is Arden?

An uncommon unisex name, used modestly in the US.

Gifts with the name Arden

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Spellings and variants of Arden

ArdynArdenne

Names similar to Arden

More unisex names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Arden mean?

Arden means 'High; from the Forest of Arden'. It is of English, from Celtic origin.

Does Arden have a religious meaning?

Arden has no religious background; it is a secular place-name and surname.

How do you pronounce Arden?

Arden is pronounced AR-den.

Is Arden a boy or girl name?

Arden is used for both boys and girls.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.