Paulding (surname)

Paulding is a surname of English origin. It is derived from a personal name composed of the elements "Bald", meaning "bold" or "brave", and "-ing", a suffix denoting association or descent. Therefore, Paulding essentially means "descendant or follower of Bald."

The surname is relatively uncommon, although variations such as Pawling and Paldin are also found. Early records of the name appear in English documents from the medieval period.

Notable people with the surname Paulding include:

• James Kirke Paulding (1778-1860): An American writer and politician who served as the 11th United States Secretary of the Navy.
• Hiram Paulding (1797-1878): A Rear Admiral in the United States Navy.

The distribution of the surname is primarily in the United States, followed by England.