The Enduring Appeal of the Classic Name Howard

Howard is a timeless and distinguished male name with a storied history. Derived from the Old English name Hereward, which meant "army guard" or "brave in war," Howard has Germanic roots and has been used as both a first and last name throughout the centuries.

Origins, Meaning, and Variations

The name Howard originates from the Old English personal name Hereward, which was composed of the elements "here" meaning "army" and "weard" meaning "guard" or "protector." Over time, the name evolved into the modern form Howard. Common variations and spellings include Howards, Heyward, and Hayward.

Popularity and Notable Namebearers

In the United States, Howard has been a consistently popular name for over a century, though it has gradually declined in usage in recent decades. In 2022, it ranked 1,052 on the list of most popular baby names, with 357 newborns receiving the name. While it was much more common in the past, particularly in the early to mid-20th century, Howard remains a recognizable and distinguished choice.

Some famous individuals who share the name Howard include:

• Howard Stern, iconic American radio personality
• Howard Hughes, pioneering aviator, engineer, and film producer
• Howard Cosell, legendary American sports journalist and broadcaster
• Howard Schultz, former CEO and chairman of Starbucks

Style and Traits

Howard is considered a classic, traditional name that evokes a sense of sophistication and reliability. It is often chosen by parents seeking a strong, established name for their son. Bearers of the name Howard are often perceived as intelligent, hardworking, and dependable individuals.

The name Howard flows well with many middle and last names, such as Howard Alexander, Howard Charles, and Howard Williamson. It has a solid, authoritative sound that complements both formal and informal surnames.

Cultural Associations

In literature and popular culture, the name Howard has appeared in works such as:

• "Howard the Duck," a Marvel comic book character
• "How I Met Your Mother," a sitcom featuring a character named Howard Wolowitz

Additionally, the name Howard has historical significance, as it was borne by several British nobles and royalty, including Howard, 1st Earl of Carlisle and Howard, 3rd Earl of Suffolk.

Alternative Name Suggestions

If you're considering the name Howard for your son, here are some alternative or sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and origin:

• Arthur
• Edmund
• Frederick
• Henry
• Theodore

These classic, Germanic-inspired names offer a complementary feel to Howard and can be paired together to create a harmonious sibset.