Popularity: 1796
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: to go down; to descend
A distinguished form of Jordan, Judson is a boy's name that shares its Hebrew origin. Representing the mighty Jordan River, both names emerge from the Hebrew word Yarden, which means "to go down" or "to descend"—a playful reference to the faithful river's passage to the Dead Sea. Jordan is long held as a spiritual title, bound to the blessed waters where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. The name eventually found its way to Europe in the hands of the Crusaders, seeking to christen their children with its holy promise. For many, it served as an empowering reminder to children of their father's efforts and courage. Perhaps for your little one, Judson may symbolize life's great journeys that they will no doubt conquer with ease.