Sherrard is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English word "scir" meaning "bright" or "clear", and "heah" meaning "high". The name was originally used as a surname, but has since evolved into a given name for boys.
The name Sherrard is thought to have originated in Normandy, France, where it was brought over by the Normans when they invaded England in 1066. It was likely first used as a surname for someone who lived near a prominent hill or height of land. Over time, the name became associated with the Sherrard family, who were prominent nobles and landowners in medieval England.
The name Sherrard has been borne by several notable historical figures, including Sir William Sherrard, an English soldier and explorer who served under King James I in the 17th century. However, despite its rich history, the name remains relatively rare today, with only a small number of people bearing it as a first name.
In terms of popularity, the name Sherrard has never been particularly common. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, for example, the name has never appeared in the top 1000 most popular names for boys since records began in 1937. Nevertheless, it remains a distinctive and unusual name that continues to be used occasionally today.
Overall, Sherrard is a name of English origin with a rich history and interesting meanings. While it may not be particularly common today, its unique sound and association with prominent historical figures make it an attractive choice for parents looking for something different for their child.
The statistics regarding the name Sherrard show a steady but modest presence over the years in the United States. The highest number of births recorded was in 1990 with nine newborns being named Sherrard, indicating that this year saw a particular popularity for this name. However, the numbers fluctuate significantly from one year to another, ranging from five births in 1988 to seven births in 1978. Overall, there were a total of 47 babies born and named Sherrard between the years 1977 and 1990 inclusive. While this figure might not suggest that Sherrard is among the most common names, it does show that it has been consistently used over these years. It's interesting to note that there were no recorded births with the name Sherrard in some of the years between 1977 and 1986, suggesting potential trends or patterns in naming practices during this period.