Coward Name Origin, Meaning and Family History

Coward Name Meaning: An occupational name for a keeper of cattle. Middle English 'Cowherde' cu 'cow' + hierde' herdsman.

In ancient times the ownership of cattle was a sign of considerable wealth.To show extreme bravery in fighting persistent cattle rustlers was essential.

Discover how your Coward ancestors earned their living and spread across the country. Find out more about your family history by using the Free Search box.

Surname Distribution

Census frequency by county

Name Concentrations Within England and Wales

Coward Surname Statistics


Top Professions for the Coward family

Profession Census Frequency
Scholar 629
General Labourer 73
Domestic Servant 50
Dress Maker 44
Farmer 44
Living On Own Means 42
General Servant Domestic 40
Labourer 32
Living On Her Own Means 29
Cotton Weaver 25
Agricultural Labourer 24
General Servant 22
Joiner 21
General Domestic Servant 20
Farm Servant 16
Shoe Maker 15
Coal Miner 15
Carpenter 15
Laundress 14
Farm Labourer 14
House Keeper 13
Clerk 13
Tailor 12
Painter 11
Iron Miner 11

Coward Surname Variants Ranking

Rank Surname Match Census Frequency
1 Coward 100% 26,887
2 Caward 83% 305

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The surname Coward is the most popular version of all its varients

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