All about the name

Woodard

Male

« Woodard is an English surname turned given name, originally given to those who lived in woods or worked with wood, derived from 'wood' (forest) and '-ard' (of or from). »

#10591 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Woodard is a unique and distinctive name of English origin. It is derived from an Old English surname that was originally given to a person who lived in the woods or worked as a woodcutter. The name is composed of two elements: "wood" meaning forest or trees, and "-ard", which is a suffix denoting someone who works at or comes from a place. The earliest records of the name Woodard can be traced back to the 13th century in England. In those days, surnames were often adopted based on the person's occupation, location, or physical characteristics. In this case, it appears that the name Woodard was likely given to someone who lived near a forest or worked with wood. Over time, Woodard has evolved from a surname into a given name, although it is still relatively uncommon compared to other names of English origin. Despite its rarity, Woodard has a certain charm and uniqueness that makes it appealing to those looking for a distinctive name for their child. In terms of meaning, Woodard carries with it connotations of nature, strength, and perhaps even durability, given the robust quality of wood. It is also associated with craftsmanship and skill, as woodworkers throughout history have been highly regarded for their abilities. While there may not be any famous historical figures or well-known celebrities named Woodard, this unique name has a rich history and meaningful origin that makes it an attractive choice for parents seeking something distinctive for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Woodard since 1880

Total births
283
Total since 1880
Peak year
1920
18 births
in 1958
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years