Surname Malden - Meaning and Origin
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Malden: What does the surname Malden mean?
The last name Malden is believed to be of English origin, derived from several locations in Britain called "Maldon". The Old English word “maldun” (meaning a crossroads or meeting place where two rivers cross) likely influenced its development.
Maldon is an ancient historic town and was referenced in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it is recorded as Maidelesdone. However, some believe Malden is the transformation of an earlier Olde English term ‘Maeledun’, which itself may derive from ‘Maeledune’ or ‘maelesdune’, meaning the ‘dune’ or hill of a man called Mael.
Suggested coats of arms for the Maldon name show a red lion rampant on a silver shield, with a racecourse as the crest. Overall, the Maldens were likely a distinguished, If not wealthy, family from ancient times that have maintained their name into the present.
Today, the Malden surname is found among people of many different backgrounds and cultures, and its meaning is derived from that proud history. Those of the Malden name carry a unique and fascinating heritage, one that is forever commemorated in the name and its associated symbols.
Order DNA origin analysisMalden: Where does the name Malden come from?
The last name Malden is a popular surname in various parts of the world. It is commonly found in France, England, Netherlands, Ireland, Brazil, and Germany. In France, the last name Malden originates from the Norman word “Mal Daen,” which means “bad man” or “mischievous.” Its popularity varies from country to country; for example, in England it is ranked as the 579th most popular surname, while in Germany it is ranked as the 9,372nd most popular surname.
In the United States, the last name Malden is most prominently found in Massachusetts. Here, it ranks as the 286th most common surname in the state. Malden was originally an area in the Greater Boston area, and many people took the place name as their surname. This led to the Malden surname being concentrated in this region, and it is often referred to as a “Massachusetts surname.” However, the Malden surname isn’t exclusive to Massachusetts and it can also be found in other states, such as Minnesota and Texas.
Overall, the Malden surname is widely dispersed throughout the world, particularly in countries with French roots. However, it has especially prominent roots in Massachusetts, making it one of the most prominent surnames in the region.
Variations of the surname Malden
The surname Malden is sometimes spelled as "Maulden," "Maudlin," and "Mawdlen." It is derived from the Old English word "maedel," meaning "steward." Variations of the Malden surname include "Mauldoon," "Maudleigh," "Melden," and "Moulden."
In addition, a variation of the Malden name can be found in the spelling of "Mauldin." This variant is more frequently found in the United States and derives from a patronymic surname from the Middle English personal name, "Maud."
The Malden surname can also be simplified to some alternative spellings including "Mallen," "Mellen," and "Mollen." Moreover, some variation can be found among the variations of the surname itself, such as "Mallaen," "Mallen," "Mallin," and "Maunell."
Variants of the Malden surname can also be found in other languages, such as "Mazellin" in French, or "Maldonado" in Spanish. It may also be found in other cultures, such as "Meldin" in German or "Maudlin" in Irish.
Overall, variations of the Malden surname provide useful information when examining an individual's genealogical history. With its many variations and spellings, it is possible to trace a family's ties to their ancestral roots and locate individuals with shared family histories.
Famous people with the name Malden
- Karl Malden: actor best known for his roles in films such as A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) and On the Waterfront (1954). He also starred in television series such as The Streets of San Francisco (1972-1977).
- Mona Malden: daughter of Karl Malden who is also an actress and appeared Meadow Marauder, Panic in Seattle (1993) and The Gold Coast (1998).
- Mila Malden: daughter of Karl Malden and Mona Malden who is best known as an actress in the television series Charmed (2010-2012).
- Michael Malden: a British actor, best known for playing Peter Beale in the BBC soap opera EastEnders from 1993 to 1998.
- John Malden: a Scottish actor who has appeared in various films such as The Informant (1997), Flushed Away (2006), and Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011).
- Martin Malden: an English actor best known for his roles in films such as The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982) and The Animal (2001).
- Ivan Malden: a Serbian–American actor best known for his films including Taken (2008) and 24 Weeks (2016).
- Hal Malden: an American actor and screenwriter who has starred in films including Rebel Without a Cause (1955) and his son appeared in the show The Sopranos (2003 to 2006).