Find out how popular the first name Ward has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ward by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Ward is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 96% of people named Ward being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 43 male babies and 6 female babies born with the name Ward.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 6 baby girls were named Ward in 2023, despite it being a predominantly male name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Ward

The given name Ward has its origins rooted in Old English, derived from the word "weard," which means "watchman" or "guard." This name gained prominence during the medieval period, particularly in England and other parts of the British Isles.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Ward can be traced back to the 11th century, where it was commonly used to refer to individuals responsible for guarding or protecting estates, villages, or castles. In the feudal system, the role of a ward was highly respected and carried significant social status.

One of the earliest and most notable references to the name Ward can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land and property ownership commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. This historical record mentions several individuals bearing the name Ward, indicating its widespread use among the Anglo-Saxon population at the time.

Throughout the Middle Ages, the name Ward was particularly popular among the English nobility and gentry. It was often bestowed upon sons who were expected to assume responsibilities related to the protection and maintenance of their family's lands and possessions.

As the centuries passed, the name Ward continued to hold significance, appearing in various historical accounts and literature. One notable figure bearing this name was Ward Chipman (1754-1824), a prominent Canadian lawyer, politician, and judge who played a crucial role in the establishment of the legal system in New Brunswick.

Another individual of historical significance was Ward McAllister (1827-1895), an American socialite and arbiter of high society in New York City during the Gilded Age. He was known for establishing strict social rules and etiquette, earning him the nickname "The King of Society."

In the realm of literature, Ward Muir (1885-1962) was a Scottish poet and novelist who gained recognition for his works showcasing the rugged landscapes and rural life of his homeland. His poetic voice captured the essence of the Scottish countryside and its people.

The name Ward has also been associated with notable figures in the world of sports. Ward Cuff (1924-2001) was a Canadian ice hockey player who played for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League and later became a successful businessman and philanthropist.

Another significant figure was Ward Melville (1887-1977), an American businessman and philanthropist who founded the Melville Corporation, a successful retail conglomerate. He was also instrumental in preserving large swaths of land on Long Island, New York, for public use and environmental conservation.

While the name Ward has maintained a presence throughout history, its popularity has fluctuated over time. Nonetheless, its roots in Old English and its association with guardianship and protection have endured, making it a name with a rich cultural heritage.

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 Ward was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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