US Popularity Rank: 197

Origin: German

Meaning: Hedged valley; Hay valley; Heathen

If you want to help baby connect to their earthy side, the name Hayden can definitely do the job. Hayden was a distinguished British surname that means “hedged valley” or "hay valley" in Old English. Though pronounced differently, this name was also adopted in Europe as a tribute to Austrian composer Joseph Haydn. Although it's considered a gender-neutral name, Hayden is more common for boys than girls. But that didn't stop Hayden Panetierre from shining! Hayden's German roots may also connect it to "heathen," which typically referred to anyone who didn't follow the mainstream beliefs at the time. This can easily encourage your little one to go against the grain and march to the beat of their own drum. If you're looking for inspirational place names, look no further than The Hayden Planetarium in New York City for a gorgeously out-of-this-world experience.