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 556
Agricultural Labourer 72
Labourer 52
Domestic Servant 44
Dress Maker 29
House Keeper 26
General Servant 25
Ag Labourer 20
Joiner 18
Servant 17
Tailor 16
Cotton Weaver 16
Annuitant 14
Blacksmith 12
Farm Labourer 12
Shoe Maker 11
Farm Servant 11
Laundress 11
Farmer's Wife 11
Carpenter 10
Coal Miner 10
Farmer 10
Farmer's Son 10
Labourer Wife 9
Painter 9

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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