The name Brayden is a relatively modern name, originating in the late 20th century. It is an English name, believed to be a variant or combination of the names Braden and Braydon. The name is thought to have been derived from the Old English word "brad," meaning broad or wide.

While the name Brayden itself is a modern creation, the root word "brad" has a long history in English-speaking cultures. It can be found in various place names and surnames dating back to medieval times, such as Bradshaw and Bradford.

The earliest recorded use of the name Brayden is difficult to pinpoint precisely, as it rose to popularity only in recent decades. However, some of the earliest known individuals with the name Brayden include:

1. Brayden Schenn, a Canadian professional ice hockey player born in 1991.
2. Brayden Tracey, a Canadian junior ice hockey player born in 2001.
3. Brayden Ennor, a New Zealand rugby union player born in 1997.
4. Brayden Moore, an American professional baseball player born in 1997.
5. Brayden Griffith, a Canadian actor and model active in the 2010s.

While the name Brayden is relatively new, its roots in Old English and its increasing popularity in recent decades have established it as a recognizable name in English-speaking cultures. As a modern name, its historical significance lies in its reflection of contemporary naming trends and preferences rather than a deep-rooted cultural or linguistic heritage.