PACKARD
Packard
Packard is an English surname of Norman origin, derived from the Old French personal name Pacard. The name is thought to have arrived in England after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
The surname Packard is believed to have multiple possible origins, including a derivation from the Old Germanic personal name Pacwald, meaning "peaceful ruler." Another interpretation suggests that it may derive from the Old English word peac, meaning "sharp point," and the Old English word weard, meaning "guard." This combination could imply someone who guards a sharp point, possibly referring to a defensive position.
The early recordings of the surname Packard date back to the 13th century in England. Over time, the surname has evolved into various spellings, including Packard, Packwood, and Packart.
Notable individuals bearing the surname Packard include Alpheus Spring Packard Jr., a renowned American naturalist and zoologist, and the founders of the Packard Motor Car Company in the United States, James Ward Packard and William Doud Packard.
The surname Packard has been predominantly found in the south of England, particularly in counties such as Kent, Sussex, and Hampshire. It has also spread to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, due to emigration patterns.
In conclusion, the surname Packard has a long history and diverse origins, with bearers of the name making notable contributions across various fields.
There are approximately 536 people named Packard in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Packard.
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
- Chris
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Kevin
- Paul
- Philip
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Barbara
- Clare
- Cynthia
- Deborah
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jean
- Joanne
- Katie
- Linda
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
- Tessa