Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Hereward

      Origin

      English

      Meaning

      Army guardian

      Variations

      Bernardo, Bernhard, Gerhardt
      The name Hereward traces its origins back to Old English and holds deep historical significance. Derived from the words here meaning army and weard meaning guardian, Hereward stands as a testament to its literal meaning, Army guardian. This name paints a picture of strength, protection, and loyalty that has resonated through the centuries.

      In the annals of history, Hereward emerges as a legendary figure - a true embodiment of his name. He was an Anglo-Saxon nobleman and warrior who fiercely resisted the Norman invasion of England in the 11th century. Leading a rebellion against the oppressive rule, Hereward became a symbol of resistance and defiance. His heroism and determination have popularized the name in history books and folklore alike.

      In modern-day usage, the name Hereward maintains its connection to its historical roots while also finding a place in contemporary society. Although not as common as some other names, Hereward still carries a sense of nobility and strength. It is often chosen by parents seeking a unique and powerful name for their children. Additionally, individuals with this name may take pride in their namesake's legacy - standing as guardians, defenders, and protectors in their own right. The influence of the name Hereward, both historically and in present times, exemplifies its enduring significance as an emblem of strength and protection.

      Based on our records...

      Wake

      Wake

      This is the most common surname associated with Hereward.
      Edith

      Edith

      This is the most common name of those married to a Hereward.
      Kenneth

      Kenneth

      This is the most common name for a child of a Hereward.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1899 is when there were the most people born with the first name Hereward.

      Explore the origins of another name.