DRYDEN
Dryden
Dryden is an English surname of locational origin, derived from the place name "Dryden" in Northamptonshire, England. The name is thought to originate from the Old English words "dryge" meaning dry and "denu" meaning valley, indicating a person who lived in a dry valley.
The Dryden family is notable for its literary legacy, primarily through the renowned poet and playwright John Dryden (1631-1700). John Dryden was the first official Poet Laureate of England and a prominent figure in the Restoration Period, known for his influential works such as "Absalom and Achitophel" and "All for Love".
Over the centuries, the Dryden surname has spread beyond Northamptonshire to various parts of the United Kingdom and the wider world as a result of migration and settlement. Today, individuals bearing the surname Dryden can be found across the globe, continuing the heritage of this distinguished name.
The Dryden surname carries with it a rich history and cultural significance, reflecting the literary achievements and contributions of notable individuals associated with the name.
There are approximately 3,590 people named Dryden in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,562nd most common surname in Britain. Around 55 in a million people in Britain are named Dryden.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Steven
- William
Female
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Fiona
- Heather
- Helen
- Janet
- Judith
- Laura
- Margaret
- Mary
- Rachel
- Sarah
- Susan