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 Woodward

      Origin

      English

      Meaning

      Forester, wood-keeper

      Variations

      Woodard, Woodrow, Edward
      The name Woodward originates from English and has its roots in medieval times. It is derived from the Old English words wudu meaning wood and ward meaning guardian or keeper. Therefore, Woodward can be understood as Forester or wood-keeper. This name indicates a person who was responsible for the management and protection of forests during a time when forest lands were of great importance for hunting, timber, and the preservation of wildlife.

      Throughout history, the name Woodward has been found in various records and documents. It is documented that individuals bearing this name can be traced back as far as the 13th century in England. In medieval times, woodwards held a significant position within society, overseeing the administration and protection of forested areas. Over time, as societies evolved and the importance of forests changed, the role of woodwards diminished. the name Woodward, however, continued to be passed down through generations, becoming a distinctive family name.

      In modern times, the name Woodward is still recognized and used. It can be found across the English-speaking world, particularly in countries with historical ties to the British Isles. While the original meaning and occupational link may have faded, Woodward continues to carry the lineage and heritage of those who were responsible for the care and management of forests. Today, the name serves as a reminder of our ancestors' connection to the land and their role in preserving nature.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Woodward.

      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?

      1913 is when there were the most people born with the first name Woodward.

      Explore the origins of another name.