Coward Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Coward come from? What does the surname Coward mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Coward and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Coward Origin: What does the last name Coward mean?
The surname Coward originates from England and is derived from the Old English term "cuhyrde," meaning cow-herd. It first appeared in records in England around the early 16th century and remained closely associated with the country from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Over time, the Coward surname spread globally, with significant volumes of records found in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the Coward surname is prominent in countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Coward surname in England and its subsequent global spread. The surname has a rich history and can be found in various countries worldwide, indicating its enduring legacy and widespread impact across different regions and cultures. The surname Coward signifies a connection to cow-herding and highlights the ancestral roots of individuals bearing this name.
Coward Last Name History: Where did the last name Coward come from?
Origin of Coward Surname: Where does the last name Coward originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Coward first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Coward spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Coward: What does the Coward surname history look like in the early days?
The Coward surname remained closely associated with England from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Coward family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Coward surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Coward surname grew significantly in the United States. The Coward surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
Explore Coward last name heritage and Coward surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Coward Surame?
Noël Coward
Sir Noël Peirce Coward (Dec 16, 1899 – Mar 26, 1973) was an English playwright, composer, director, actor, and singer known for his wit and flamboyance. He wrote over 50 plays, including "Private Lives" and "Blithe Spirit," and composed hundreds of songs. Coward's work continues to influence popular culture, and he was knighted in 1970. Despite not publicly acknowledging his homosexuality, it was discussed candidly after his death. The Noël Coward Theatre in London was named in his honor, recognizing his lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Herbert Coward
Herbert Lee "Cowboy" Coward (August 21, 1938 – January 24, 2024) was an American actor known for his role as "Toothless Man" in the iconic 1972 film Deliverance. He delivered the infamous line "He got a real purty mouth, ain’t he?" in the movie. Following his acting career, he worked at a factory for 27 years and made appearances in other films and television shows. Coward's legacy lives on through his memorable performance in Deliverance, inspiring other media portrayals. He tragically passed away in a car accident at the age of 85, leaving behind a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Charles Coward
Charles Joseph Coward (30 Jan 1905 – 21 Dec 1976) was a British soldier known as the "Count of Auschwitz" for his bravery during World War II. Captured by the Germans, he rescued hundreds of Jewish prisoners from Auschwitz through daring escapes and smuggling operations. Coward's actions, including testifying at the Nuremberg Trials and aiding in legal proceedings, earned him recognition as one of the Righteous Among the Nations. His story was later immortalized in John Castle's book and a film adaptation, showcasing his courage and compassion in the face of unimaginable horrors.
Thomas Coward
Thomas Alfred Coward (Jan 8, 1867 – Jan 29, 1933) was an English ornithologist and amateur astronomer known for his extensive writings on natural history, local history, and Cheshire. Born in Bowdon, Cheshire, Coward worked in the family business before retiring to focus on his passion for wildlife and bird studies. He authored "The Birds of the British Isles and their Eggs," a seminal work in birdwatching. Coward's contributions to ornithology and nature conservation were significant, earning him a lasting legacy in the field. He also coined the term "Jizz" in birdwatching. His work continues to inspire bird enthusiasts and researchers worldwide.
William Coward
William Coward (1657?–1725) was an English physician, controversial writer, and poet known for his sceptical writings on the soul. Parliament condemned his works as blasphemous, ordering them to be burned in his presence. Born in Winchester, Coward studied at Oxford before settling in London and later Ipswich. He published works challenging traditional beliefs about the soul's immortality, sparking debates with prominent thinkers like John Locke. Despite facing criticism and having his books burned, Coward continued to defend his controversial ideas until his death in 1725.
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