The name Judd has its origins in the Middle English period, derived from the name Judde, which was a diminutive form of the name Judas. The name Judas itself is ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Judah, meaning "praised." While the name Judas is associated with Judas Iscariot in the New Testament, the name Judah has more positive connotations in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Jacob and the ancestor of the tribe of Judah.

The earliest known use of the name Judd dates back to the 13th century in England, where it was sometimes spelled as Judde or Jud. It was a relatively common name among the English during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Judd was Sir Andrew Judd (c. 1492-1558), an English merchant and philanthropist who founded the Tonbridge School in Kent, England. Another notable figure was John Judd (c. 1585-1659), an English clergyman and author who served as the Bishop of Winchester.

In the 17th century, Judd became a more established surname, particularly in the United States. One of the earliest Americans with the name was Thomas Judd (1608-1688), an early settler of Cambridge, Massachusetts. His descendants included William Judd (1766-1804), a Revolutionary War soldier who fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill.

In the 19th century, Judd gained some prominence as a first name. One notable bearer was Sylvester Judd (1789-1860), an American novelist and editor who published the popular novel "Margaret: A Tale of the Real and Ideal." Another was Norman B. Judd (1815-1878), a prominent American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Illinois.

In the 20th century, the name Judd was associated with several notable individuals, including the British actor Judd Trichett (1907-1992), known for his roles in films such as "The Man in the White Suit" and "The Ladykillers." Another was Judd Hirsch (born 1935), an American actor best known for his roles in the TV series "Taxi" and "Dear John."