Ned
Ned began as a short form of Edward, from the Anglo-Saxon "Eadweard" — "ead" (wealth) and "weard" (guardian). Ned was moderately popular in mid-century America, peaking at #298 in 1935. Ned (the actor Ned Beatty, 1937-2013, known for "Network" (1976) and "Deliverance" (1972)) is the most famous American bearer. Ned (the inventor Ned "Ned" Ludd, the 18th-century English worker who supposedly smashed textile machinery and gave his name to the "Luddite" movement) gave the name a historical charge. Ned is a male name of Anglo-Saxon origin that means "Wealthy guardian (short form of Edward)". Brisk, vintage, and friendly. The name sounds approachable. Neds tend to be steady. US peaked #298 in 1935. Now outside top 1000. Well-known people named Ned include Ned Beatty (actor), Ned Ludd (Luddite namesake), Ned (short form of Edward). Common variations and related forms of Ned include Edward (full form), Eddie (related), Ed (short form).