Find out how popular the first name Valen has been for the last 43 years (from 1981 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Valen by gender

Based on the last 43 years of data, Valen is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 72% of people named Valen being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 99 male babies and 22 female babies born with the name Valen.

The history of the first name Valen

The name Valen is derived from the Latin word "valens," which means "strong" or "healthy." Its origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was used as a surname for families with members who were known for their physical prowess or resilience.

In the early days of Christianity, the name gained popularity as a given name, particularly among followers of the faith. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Valen can be found in the writings of St. Jerome, a 4th-century scholar and theologian who mentioned a Roman noble named Valen in his letters.

During the Middle Ages, the name was widely used throughout Europe, particularly in regions with strong Roman Catholic influences. One notable bearer of the name was Valen de Bierzo, a 9th-century Benedictine monk and scholar from the Kingdom of León in modern-day Spain.

In the Renaissance period, the name experienced a resurgence in popularity, with several notable figures bearing the name. Valen Acidalius (1567-1595) was a German scholar and critic known for his work on ancient Greek and Roman literature. Valen Ouwerx (1590-1638) was a Flemish artist renowned for his religious paintings and frescoes.

As the centuries passed, the name continued to be used in various parts of Europe and beyond. Valen Nauyox (1766-1837) was a French military officer who served under Napoleon Bonaparte. Valen Onorato (1842-1911) was an Italian composer and music teacher who wrote several operas and chamber works.

In more recent times, the name has been carried by individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions. Valen Pazzis (1906-1989) was an Italian-American artist known for his abstract expressionist paintings. Valen Homenaje (1925-2012) was a Spanish writer and poet who explored themes of existentialism and human nature in his works.

While the name Valen is not as common as it once was, it continues to be used in various cultures and regions, carrying with it a rich historical legacy and associations of strength, resilience, and cultural significance.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Valen was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Valen, please contact us.

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