Find out how popular the first name Edwards has been for the last 50 years (from 1975 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Edwards by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Edwards is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 8 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Edwards.

The history of the first name Edwards

Edwards is an English given name derived from the Old English words "ead" meaning prosperous or rich, and "weard" meaning guard or protector. The name can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period in England, around the 5th to 11th centuries AD.

The name gained popularity during the Middle Ages, appearing in various historical records and chronicles. One of the earliest recorded examples is Edward the Confessor, who was the King of England from 1042 to 1066 AD. He was known for his piety and religious devotion, and was later canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.

Another notable figure was Edward I, also known as Edward Longshanks, who reigned as King of England from 1272 to 1307. He is remembered for his military campaigns in Wales and Scotland, as well as for his legal and administrative reforms.

In the 14th century, Edward III, who ruled from 1327 to 1377, is considered one of the most successful English monarchs. He is renowned for his victories in the Hundred Years' War against France, and for establishing the Order of the Garter, one of the oldest and most prestigious orders of chivalry.

Moving forward, Edward IV, who reigned from 1461 to 1483, played a significant role in the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars between the House of Lancaster and the House of York. He is credited with establishing the House of York on the English throne.

Lastly, Edward VI, who ruled from 1547 to 1553 at the young age of nine, is remembered for his efforts to establish Protestantism as the dominant religion in England during the Protestant Reformation.

While the name Edwards has its roots in Old English and has been associated with numerous historical figures, it has also been adopted and used in various cultures and languages around the world, reflecting its enduring popularity and versatility.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Edwards was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Edwards, please contact us.

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