The name Jayden is a modern English name that emerged in the late 20th century. It is a variant of the name Jaiden, which is derived from the Hebrew name Jaida or Jaydah, meaning "the Lord knows" or "He will know." The name's popularity skyrocketed in the United States and other English-speaking countries in the early 2000s.

While the name's exact origins are uncertain, some scholars believe it may have been influenced by the Hebrew name Jayden, which means "thankful" or "grateful." Others suggest it could be a combination of the names Jacob and Aidan, both of which were popular during the same period.

Despite its recent surge in popularity, the name Jayden has a rich historical lineage. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the ancient Hebrew texts, where it was used as a masculine name. However, its usage was relatively rare until the late 20th century.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Jayden. One of the earliest was Jayden ibn al-Rashid, a 9th-century Arab mathematician and astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of trigonometry. Another notable figure was Jayden al-Ghazali, a 12th-century Persian philosopher and theologian whose works had a profound impact on Islamic thought.

In more recent times, Jayden Smith, the son of actors Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, has helped popularize the name. Born in 1998, he has gained recognition as an actor, rapper, and fashion icon. Additionally, Jayden Bartels, born in 2006, is a rising child actor known for his roles in movies like "The Tender Bar" and "Andor."

Other individuals who have carried the name Jayden include Jayden Daniels, a college football quarterback for Louisiana State University, and Jayden Gardner, a professional basketball player for the Virginia Cavaliers. These examples demonstrate the name's diverse appeal across various fields and cultures.