Surname Howard - Meaning and Origin

Unraveling the Howard Surname: A Fascinating Journey through Genetic Heritage via iGENEA DNA Test Results

I took an iGENEA DNA test and unearthed a wealth of information about the genetic heritage associated with the Howard surname. The evidence suggests that the primary genetic group associated with the Howard name hails from Northwestern Europe, particularly the British Isles, with an impressive Celtic background. Furthermore, the results outlined fascinating historical migrations, with the dominant R1b haplogroup and paternal and maternal genetic markers painting a clear picture of my ancestors' journey.

N. Howard

Howard: What does the surname Howard mean?

The surname Howard is of Anglo-Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name "Haward," with "ha" meaning high and "vard" meaning guardian or ward. Therefore, the literal interpretation of the name Howard is "high guardian" or "chief guard." The name could potentially signify a high-ranking or chief protector, possibly in the context of a royal or noble household, which aligns with its known historical usage among aristocracy. Over centuries, the name has been adopted by various cultures and regions, resulting in different spelling variations including Haward, Heward, and Hayward. This surname is historically significant in England, particularly linked to the Dukes of Norfolk, the premier dukes of the country.

Howard: Where does the name Howard come from?

The surname Howard is of English origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name "Haward," meaning "high or chief guard". It was originally bestowed on those who held a high rank or position, such as a steward or a warden. The name evolved as a surname over time and became widespread in England after the Norman conquests of the 11th century. The Howard family is a prominent English noble house, counting two Dukes among its members.

Today, the Howard surname is still common in England, particularly in regions like Kent, Cornwall, and Dorset. However, its reach has extended far beyond its Anglo-Saxon roots. It is also very prevalent in the United States where many English immigrants carried the name in the late 17th and onward through the 18th and 19th centuries. According to U.S census data, Howard ranks as the 70th most common surname in the United States. It is also found in other English-speaking countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

Variations of the surname Howard

Howard is an English surname with a number of variants and similar surnames possibly of the same origin. Some versions include Howerd, Heward, Haward, Haywood, and Heyward. Other spellings derived from Howard are Howarth, Howorth, Howardt, Howardson, and Hayward.

The name Howard is believed to have originated from the old Norse personal name Haward, meaning "high or chief warden". Other sources suggest that it might have evolved from the pre 7th-century Old English personal name Heaward. The Norman surname Huard or Houard might have also influenced the spelling of Howard in different regions.

The surnames Hovard, Hovardas, and Hovarda are also considered to be modifications of Howard in non-English regions. In some cases, Howard can also be a patronymic surname, such as Howardson, meaning "son of Howard".

However, it's important to point out that the connections between these variants and the surname Howard may not be universally accepted, as surnames can often originate in multiple ways and from different regions independently. Not all bearers of these surnames necessarily share the same ancestry or origins.

Famous people with the name Howard

• Ron Howard: An acclaimed American filmmaker, known for 'A Beautiful Mind'.
• Bryce Dallas Howard: An American film actress and director, best known for her role in the movie 'Jurassic World'. She's Ron Howard's daughter.
• Dwight Howard: Basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the NBA.
• Terrence Howard: An American actor known for movies like 'Hustle & Flow'.
• Howard Hughes: A renowned filmmaker and aviator, though Howard is his first name.
• Ken Howard: A successful American actor, known for 'The White Shadow'.
• Leslie Howard: A well-known British stage and film actor active during the early to mid-20th century.
• Arliss Howard: An American actor, writer and director, notable for his role in 'Full Metal Jacket'.
• Rance Howard: An American actor who appeared in many films and TV shows, father of Ron Howard.
• Clint Howard: An American actor and brother of director Ron Howard.
• Trevor Howard: The late British actor who appeared in films such as 'Brief Encounter'.
• Traylor Howard: An American actress known for her role in the television show 'Monk'.
• Shemp Howard: An American actor and comedian known for being part of the “Three Stooges” comedy team.
• Frank Howard: Former Major League Baseball player.

Other surnames

Howarth