Camden

"Winding valley" — a place-name turned modern given name with cool, relaxed energy

Camden is an Old English topographic surname meaning winding valley, from the elements camb (crooked, winding) and dun (hill or valley). It is the name of a historic district in London and a borough in New Jersey, among other places. As a given name, Camden began rising in the late 20th century as part of the broader trend of English place-name surnames becoming fashionable first names. It strikes a balance between rugged and refined, with the nickname Cam giving it an easy, contemporary feel. Camden has been particularly popular in the American South and among parents seeking a fresh alternative to Cameron.