TheNameDBWarden
OccupationalMeaning
A guardian, keeper, or official in charge of a place, institution, or territory.
Etymology
Derived from Old French 'wardein' or 'warden' (guardian, keeper), which came from Germanic 'ward' (to guard, protect). The term became both an occupational title and eventually a hereditary surname.
About the Warden Surname
An occupational surname indicating someone who served as a guardian, keeper, or official administrator of a place or institution. The name has been common in English-speaking regions for nearly 900 years.
Distribution
Found throughout England and English-speaking countries, with particular concentration in regions with historical administrative centers.
Notable Bearers
Warden family (various English noble families), Jack Warden (American actor)