Goddard

Origin

Goddard is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Gōdheard," which means "good-hardy" or "brave." The name Goddard dates back to the pre-7th century and is first recorded in the Domesday Book as "Godeheard" in the year 1086.

History

The surname Goddard has a long history in England, with records showing it was most prevalent in the regions of Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Somerset. The name has ancient roots in the Anglo-Saxon culture and has been carried by notable figures throughout British history.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir William Goddard (1740-1806): A British printer and journalist who founded the Pennsylvania Chronicle, a newspaper known for its anti-British sentiments during the American Revolution.

  • Paulette Goddard (1910-1990): An American actress and a star of the silent era, known for her roles in classic films such as "Modern Times" and "The Great Dictator."

  • Sir Anthony Goddard (1930-): A British judge who served as the Lord Chief Justice of Bermuda and the Falkland Islands, known for his contributions to legal reform in the British Overseas Territories.

Variations

Variations of the surname Goddard include Godard, Goddair, and Godhart.

Modern Distribution

Today, the surname Goddard is found not only in the United Kingdom but also in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, carried by descendants of English immigrants.

Coat of Arms

The Goddard family crest features a shield with three gold goats on a red background, symbolizing strength and resilience.

In conclusion, the surname Goddard is a distinguished English name with a rich history and notable individuals associated with it. From its origins in medieval England to its modern-day presence around the world, the name Goddard continues to be a symbol of strength, bravery, and endurance.

There are approximately 22,346 people named Goddard in the UK. That makes it the 380th most common surname in Britain. Around 343 in a million people in Britain are named Goddard.

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

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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