Snowden

Snowden is an English surname of topographical origin, meaning 'from the snow hill'. It would have been given to someone who lived on or near a hill that was frequently covered in snow. The name is derived from the Old English elements 'snaw' (snow) and 'dun' (hill).

While primarily a surname, it has occasionally been adopted as a given name, particularly in the United States, though it remains rare. Its usage as a first name is largely influenced by its surname status, rather than an independent etymological development as a given name. The name gained significant public recognition in the 21st century due to a prominent individual.