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 358
Agricultural Labourer 103
House Servant 59
Labourer 44
Farm Labourer 34
At Home 30
Dress Maker 29
Carpenter 19
Pauper 19
Annuitant 18
General Servant 16
Servant 16
Blacksmith 16
Laundress 15
Farm Servant 14
Tailor 14
Nurse 10
House Keeper 10
Cook 9
Ag Lab 8
Wife Of Above 8
Home 8
Wife 8
School 8
Grocer 7

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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