FOARD

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Foard

Foard is a surname of English origin, believed to have derived from the pre-7th century Old English word 'ford', meaning a shallow river crossing. The surname is classified as a toponymic name, indicating that the original bearers of the surname lived near or on a ford.

The earliest recorded instances of the Foard surname date back to the 13th century in the county of Norfolk, England. Over the centuries, the surname has spread throughout various regions of the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in East Anglia and the South East.

Individuals bearing the surname Foard have been associated with a variety of professions and pursuits. The name may be found in historical records documenting occupations such as farmers, merchants, and craftsmen. The surname has also been connected with individuals involved in military endeavours and naval service.

Today, individuals with the surname Foard can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world, particularly in former British colonies. The name has retained its historical significance and continues to be passed down through generations, preserving the legacy of its early bearers.

There are approximately 339 people named Foard in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Foard.

Surname type: Occupational name

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Darrell
Darren
David
Dean
Ian
Jeffrey
John
Kenneth
Martin
Michael
Nicholas
Robert
Thomas

Female

Alice
Angela
Anna
Beverley
Caroline
Dorothy
Hayley
Joan
Laura
Margaret
Nicola
Sarah
Sheila
Tracy

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.