Howard
Howard has disputed origins. The most popular theory traces it to the Old English "Hēahweard" — "hēah" (high) and "weard" (guardian) — meaning "high guardian." A second theory suggests it derives from the Old Norse "Hávarðr," meaning "high guardian." The Howard family is one of the most noble families in English history — the Dukes of Norfolk. Howard was a top-50 American name from 1890 to 1955, peaking at #22 in 1921. Howard Hughes (1905-1976), the billionaire aviator, filmmaker, and eccentric, is one of the most famous American bearers. Howard (the publisher of "Iron Man," based on Hughes) gave the name a pop-culture charge. Howard Stern (born 1954), the radio host, gave the name a contemporary charge. I find Howard has a serious, slightly mid-century quality — the "H" opening is gentle, and the "rd" cluster gives it weight. The nickname Howie (as in Howie Mandel) lightens it considerably. Howard is a male name of English (compound name) origin that means "Brave heart, or "high guardian"". Serious, mid-century, and a little eccentric. The name sounds historic. Howards tend to be capable. US peaked #22 in 1921. Outside top 500 since 2010. Well-known people named Howard include Howard Hughes (aviator), Howard Stern (radio host), Howard (English compound name), Howard (fictional, various). Common variations and related forms of Howard include Howie (nickname), How (nickname), Hawk (modern), Hayward (variant).