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Ward Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning

Where did the surname Ward come from? What does the surname Ward mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Ward and family migration on YourRoots Map.


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Surname Ward Origin: What does the last name Ward mean?

Ward is a surname of either Old English or Old Gaelic origin, commonly found in English-speaking countries. In Old English, it was an occupational name for a civil guard or a topographical name referring to a marsh. In Old Gaelic, it derived from Mac an Bh√°ird, meaning "son of the Bard," where a bard was a storyteller or poet. The surname Ward dates back to 1176 and is the 79th most common surname in the United States, the 78th in Ireland, and was the most common surname in Lutterworth, Leicestershire in 2007.

YourRoots data indicates that the Ward surname has been present in historical records in England since the early 13th century, with a notable increase in the United States from the 16th century onwards. The surname has seen significant global spread, with a strong presence in countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, and beyond. The Ward surname reflects a diverse history, embodying both occupational and topographical origins, and continues to be prevalent in various regions and cultures worldwide.

Ward Last Name History: Where did the last name Ward come from?

Origin of Ward Surname: Where does the last name Ward originate from?

YourRoots data suggests that the surname Ward made its first appearance in historical records in England around the early 13th century. Please be aware that this refers only to the exact ‚Äö"Ward" spelling as reflected in the YourRoots database and does not account for other sources or variations of the surname.

History of the Last Name Ward: What does the Ward surname history look like in the early days?

The "Ward" surname remained strongly linked with England from the 13th through the 15th century as per YourRoots data. From the 16th century onwards, the volume of records of the Ward family increased notably in the United States. This suggests a significant spread of the surname beyond its initial geographical boundaries.

Global Spread: Where can we find the Ward surname today?

The 17th century marked a noticeable shift in the frequency of the Ward surname, with the United States surpassing England. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the "Ward" surname is widespread across multiple countries. In addition to the United States and the United Kingdom, records of the surname can be found in various countries, reflecting its global spread.


Explore Ward last name heritage and Ward surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Ward surname origin, history, meaning based on YourRoots Map dataVIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME WARD

Famous People With Ward Surame?

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Maitland Ward

    Maitland Ward

    Ashley Maitland Welkos (born Feb 3, 1977), known professionally as Maitland Ward, is an American former actress turned pornographic film performer. She gained fame for her roles as Jessica Forrester in "The Bold and the Beautiful" and Rachel McGuire in "Boy Meets World." After retiring from mainstream acting, Ward transitioned to adult films, receiving awards for her performances. She has also engaged in cosplay and social media, building a unique career path. Ward published her autobiography in 2022, reflecting on her journey from Hollywood to the adult film industry.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Sela Ward

    Sela Ward

    Sela Ann Ward (born Jul 11, 1956) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV series such as Sisters, Once and Again, House, CSI: NY, and FBI. She has won Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Awards for her performances, showcasing her talent and versatility on both the small and big screens. Ward has also appeared in various films, including The Fugitive, The Day After Tomorrow, and Gone Girl. With a successful career spanning decades, Ward continues to captivate audiences with her memorable portrayals and impressive acting skills.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Gemma Ward

    Gemma Ward

    Gemma Louise Ward (born Nov 3, 1987) is an Australian model and actress known for her early success in the fashion industry. She was scouted at 14 and became one of the youngest models to grace the cover of American Vogue. Ward's unique look and charm landed her major campaigns with top brands like Calvin Klein and Valentino. She later ventured into acting, starring in films like "The Black Balloon" and "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides." With her ethereal beauty and versatile talent, Ward has solidified her status as a supermodel and a rising star in Hollywood.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Gemma Ward

    Fred Ward

    Freddie Joe Ward (December 30, 1942 – May 8, 2022) was an American character actor known for his roles in popular films like "Escape from Alcatraz," "Tremors," and "The Right Stuff." Ward's diverse career spanned from the 1970s to the early 2000s, showcasing his talent in a wide range of genres from action to drama. Despite facing personal challenges early in life, Ward's dedication to his craft and memorable performances solidified his status as a respected actor in Hollywood. Whether playing an astronaut, detective, or sailor, Ward's on-screen presence captivated audiences and left a lasting impact on the film industry.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Gemma Ward

    Rachel Ward

    Rachel Claire Ward (born 12 Sep 1957) is an English-Australian actress, film director, screenwriter, and television director. Ward gained fame for her roles in popular projects like "The Thorn Birds" and "Against All Odds." She has received accolades such as Golden Globe nominations and Australian Film Institute Awards for her work. Ward is also known for her advocacy for social justice and support for the Australian film industry. Married to actor Bryan Brown, she has three children. Ward continues to make significant contributions to the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera.

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