HEYWARD
Heyward
Heyward is a British surname of Norman origin. It is derived from the Old French name "Heward" or "Haward," which means "chief guardian" or "keeper of the hedged enclosure."
Origin
The Heyward surname can be traced back to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 when William the Conqueror and his followers introduced Norman names to England. The name Heyward is an example of a surname that emerged during this period as part of the Norman influence on English society.
Distribution and Popularity
The Heyward surname is found mainly in England, particularly in regions with historical connections to Norman settlements. Over time, the surname has spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Bearers
The Heyward surname has been associated with several notable individuals throughout history, including:
- Thomas Heyward, Jr. (1746–1809): An American judge and statesman who signed the United States Declaration of Independence.
- Dennis Heyward (b. 1968): A British actor known for his roles in British television and film productions.
Variants
Variants of the Heyward surname include Heywood, Heyword, and Hayward. These variations may have different spellings but share a common origin and meaning.
Legacy
The Heyward surname reflects the historical and cultural influences that have shaped British society over centuries. It serves as a reminder of the Norman Conquest and the diverse linguistic and social heritage of the British people.
In conclusion, the Heyward surname is a testament to the rich tapestry of British history, language, and identity, embodying the spirit of guardianship and protection that has been passed down through generations.
There are approximately 463 people named Heyward in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Heyward.
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
- Christopher
- Clive
- David
- Garth
- John
- Mark
- Matthew
- Michael
- Paul
- Philip
- Richard
- Simon
- William
Female
- Ann
- Catherine
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jane
- Jennifer
- Joan
- Julie
- Karen
- Laura
- Sandra
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.