Ward Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationWARD / /wɔrd/Old English; Germanic
Meaning
Old English: watchman; Germanic: guardian
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Ward has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "weard," meaning "guard" or "watchman." This term evolved through various forms, including the Old French "guard," which was adopted into Middle English as "ward." The transition into modern English maintained the core meaning associated with protection and guardianship. The name has been used in various contexts, often as a surname before becoming established as a given name in its own right.
Historically, the name Ward appears in several notable contexts. In medieval England, it was common for individuals to be referred to by their occupation or role, and thus the name was often associated with those in positions of authority or protection. The name is also found in various historical texts and records, including the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was used to denote individuals responsible for the safety of a particular area. Additionally, the name has been borne by several saints and figures in Christian history, contributing to its significance in religious contexts.
Culturally, the name Ward has been associated with themes of vigilance and responsibility, resonating with the idea of guardianship in both familial and societal structures. This connection to protection has allowed the name to endure through centuries, often symbolizing a strong moral character. The diminutive form "Wardy" has also emerged in some contexts, reflecting a more affectionate or familiar usage of the name. Overall, Ward encapsulates a rich historical and cultural legacy that underscores its enduring appeal.
Trend Summary
The name Ward has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., with a notable decline in usage since the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Warde
International Variants
- Guardián (Spanish)
- Garde (French)
Famous people named Ward
Ward Bond was an actor best known for The Searchers, It's a Wonderful Life, and Wagon Train.
Ward Kimball was an animator and director best known for his work on Disney's Pinocchio, Fantasia, and The Jungle Book.
Ward Churchill is an author and activist best known for his writings on Native American issues and the book A Little Matter of Genocide.
Fictional characters named Ward
Ward Meachum is a fictional character from the comic book series Iron Fist. He is a business associate and sometimes antagonist to Danny Rand, the Iron Fist.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Ward was first seen in the United States in 1880. Ward has ranked as high as #822 nationally, which occurred in 1961, and has been most popular in New York, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Ward has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Ward (2023)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
OH | 5 | |
TX | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 30 |
1881 | 37 |
1882 | 30 |
1883 | 27 |
1884 | 38 |
1885 | 23 |
1886 | 25 |
1887 | 23 |
1888 | 29 |
1889 | 32 |
1890 | 37 |
1891 | 37 |
1892 | 50 |
1893 | 30 |
1894 | 31 |
1895 | 48 |
1896 | 41 |
1897 | 28 |
1898 | 28 |
1899 | 48 |
1900 | 43 |
1901 | 25 |
1902 | 46 |
1903 | 40 |
1904 | 39 |
1905 | 31 |
1906 | 34 |
1907 | 32 |
1908 | 42 |
1909 | 40 |
1910 | 50 |
1911 | 77 |
1912 | 114 |
1913 | 150 |
1914 | 193 |
1915 | 237 |
1916 | 211 |
1917 | 242 |
1918 | 258 |
1919 | 243 |
1920 | 286 |
1921 | 273 |
1922 | 323 |
1923 | 271 |
1924 | 276 |
1925 | 256 |
1926 | 220 |
1927 | 230 |
1928 | 183 |
1929 | 192 |
1930 | 223 |
1931 | 179 |
1932 | 169 |
1933 | 164 |
1934 | 187 |
1935 | 157 |
1936 | 140 |
1937 | 149 |
1938 | 175 |
1939 | 154 |
1940 | 142 |
1941 | 139 |
1942 | 158 |
1943 | 177 |
1944 | 167 |
1945 | 155 |
1946 | 219 |
1947 | 218 |
1948 | 204 |
1949 | 183 |
1950 | 167 |
1951 | 200 |
1952 | 180 |
1953 | 207 |
1954 | 196 |
1955 | 197 |
1956 | 194 |
1957 | 169 |
1958 | 246 |
1959 | 253 |
1960 | 283 |
1961 | 341 |
1962 | 263 |
1963 | 282 |
1964 | 244 |
1965 | 172 |
1966 | 200 |
1967 | 183 |
1968 | 141 |
1969 | 131 |
1970 | 129 |
1971 | 94 |
1972 | 94 |
1973 | 62 |
1974 | 61 |
1975 | 49 |
1976 | 66 |
1977 | 56 |
1978 | 43 |
1979 | 35 |
1980 | 45 |
1981 | 32 |
1982 | 43 |
1983 | 41 |
1984 | 29 |
1985 | 34 |
1986 | 35 |
1987 | 32 |
1988 | 28 |
1989 | 28 |
1990 | 33 |
1991 | 20 |
1992 | 24 |
1993 | 23 |
1994 | 15 |
1995 | 17 |
1996 | 21 |
1997 | 20 |
1998 | 23 |
1999 | 19 |
2000 | 16 |
2001 | 17 |
2002 | 14 |
2003 | 17 |
2004 | 10 |
2005 | 23 |
2006 | 19 |
2007 | 12 |
2008 | 20 |
2009 | 11 |
2010 | 18 |
2011 | 17 |
2012 | 25 |
2013 | 30 |
2014 | 30 |
2015 | 27 |
2016 | 48 |
2017 | 44 |
2018 | 40 |
2019 | 33 |
2020 | 47 |
2021 | 44 |
2022 | 54 |
2023 | 43 |
2024 | 36 |