The last name Golden can be Irish, but it's not exclusively so. Its origins are diverse.
Golden can also be of English or Jewish (Ashkenazic) origin. It's even considered a variant spelling of the English name Golding.
Therefore, while the possibility exists that the last name Golden is Irish, determining its actual origin requires genealogical research.
Here's a breakdown:
- Irish Origin: Likely anglicized from a Gaelic surname.
- English Origin: A topographic name for someone who lived near a place where marigolds grew, or from a personal name. It can also be a variant of Golding.
- Jewish (Ashkenazic) Origin: An ornamental name, translation of Gold.
In conclusion, while Golden is not exclusively Irish, it is a plausible origin. More information is needed to determine the specific origin of any given family with the surname Golden.