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
General Labourer 58
Living On Own Means 58
Farmer 40
General Servant Domestic 39
Cotton Weaver 38
Dress Maker 37
Scholar 24
Domestic Servant 20
Carpenter 16
House Maid Domestic 16
Housemaid Domestic 16
Cook Domestic 15
Charwoman 13
Laundress 13
Commercial Clerk 12
Dressmaker 12
Joiner 12
Agricultural Labourer 12
Laundress Wash 11
School 11
Dock Labourer 10
Milliner 10
Tailoress 10
Servant Domestic 9
Iron Ore Miner 9

Coward Surname Variants Ranking

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

Did you know?

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

Search for the Coward family