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Last Name Worden

What is the origin of the last name Worden?

The origin of the last name "Worden" can be traced back to England. It is a variant of the surname "Ward," which is an occupational name for a guard or watchman. The surname likely originated from the Old English word "weard" or "ward," meaning "guard" or "watch." Over time, variations such as Worden have emerged.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Worden

The meaning and origin of the last name Worden

The surname Worden is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "weardian," which means "to guard" or "to protect." As a surname, Worden likely originated as an occupational name for someone who worked as a guard or a watchman. It is also possible that the name may have been given to someone who lived near or worked at a place called Worden. The spelling variations of the name over time include Warden, Werden, and Wharden. The surname Worden is relatively common in various English-speaking countries, particularly in England and the United States. Several notable individuals with the surname Worden have made significant contributions in their respective fields, including astronaut Thomas K. Worden and football player Charles Worden, reflecting the diverse achievements and influence of individuals carrying this surname.

Geographical distribution of the last name Worden

The last name "Worden" has a relatively high geographical distribution, with a notable presence in various parts of the world. In the United States, it is most prevalent in the northeastern states, particularly in New England and New York, where it originated. Additionally, significant populations can be found in the Midwest regions of Illinois and Michigan. The name also appears in the southern states, such as Texas and Florida, as well as the western states, including California and Washington. Apart from the United States, the surname is found in Canada, predominantly in Ontario and British Columbia. In England, the name has its roots, particularly in the county of Yorkshire. Moreover, individuals with the last name "Worden" can also be found in Australia, with concentrations in New South Wales and Queensland. Overall, the geographical distribution of the name "Worden" spans different continents, reflecting a widespread presence of this familial identifier.

Variants and spellings of the last name Worden

The last name Worden can have several variations and spellings. Some common variations include Warden, Wardenen, Wordin, Wordon, Wordarn, Wordern, and Wordene. These variations may have originated due to different pronunciations, regional accents, or changes made during immigration or documentation processes. The spelling of surnames can often be influenced by various factors, such as illiteracy, translation errors, or the sound of the name in different languages. As a result, it is not uncommon to find different spellings of the same surname within a family or across generations. While Worden is the most commonly seen spelling, it is important to keep in mind that individuals with the same family history and lineage may be using alternative spellings due to personal preferences or historical reasons.

Famous people with the last name Worden

One famous individual with the last name Worden is Michael Collins Worden, an American astronaut who served as the command module pilot for the Apollo 15 mission in 1971. Worden played a crucial role in this lunar mission by circling the Moon alone and performing experiments while his fellow astronauts explored the lunar surface. His pioneering contributions to space exploration earned him recognition as one of NASA's most accomplished astronauts. Another notable figure with the last name Worden is Crystal Eastman Worden, an influential American lawyer, suffragist, and civil libertarian. She was a prominent advocate for women's rights, co-founding the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, and actively working to advance gender equality and social justice. Her tireless dedication to social reform and her substantial contributions to the feminist movement make Crystal Eastman Worden an important figure in American history.

Genealogical research on the last name Worden

The surname Worden has an intriguing genealogical history. It derives from the Old English word "wurð," meaning enclosure or enclosed settlement, and "dūn," meaning hill. This implies that the original bearers of the Worden name likely resided on or near a hill in an enclosed area. The surname is predominantly found in England, particularly in Lancashire, where it has roots dating back to the medieval times. In the earlier years, the Worden family was associated with landownership and agricultural pursuits. Over time, branches of the family have spread to different regions, including the United States and Canada, as part of wider European migration waves. Genealogical research on the Worden name has led to the establishment of various family branches, some of which have achieved notable accomplishments in different fields over the centuries.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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