Deward is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the Old English elements "deor" meaning deer, and "weard" which signifies guardian or keeper. Thus, Deward can be interpreted as 'keeper of the deer' or 'guardian of the deer'. The name combines the qualities of strength and gentleness associated with these creatures.
The earliest known use of the name Deward is found in England during the Middle Ages. It was a popular choice among the nobility due to its association with ancient Anglo-Saxon culture. Despite its historical roots, Deward remained relatively uncommon compared to other names of the time, adding to its unique character.
Throughout history, several notable figures have carried the name Deward. One such individual is Deward Wilson, an American politician who served as the Governor of Tennessee from 1979 to 1987. His political career exemplifies the leadership and strength often associated with the name Deward.
Today, Deward continues to be a rare but captivating choice for parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful name for their child. Its unique combination of historical significance, strength, and gentleness makes it an appealing option for those looking beyond conventional names.
The statistics provided show the annual number of babies named Deward born in the United States from 1903 to 1981. The name's popularity fluctuated significantly over this period.
In the early years, from 1903 to 1908, there were fewer than 10 births per year, with a notable spike of 15 births in 1912. However, between 1914 and 1924, the number of babies named Deward increased markedly, reaching a peak of 64 births in 1924.
After this peak, the popularity of the name began to decline. Between 1925 and 1935, there were between 24 and 44 births per year. This trend continued into the 1940s and 1950s, with fewer than 25 births per year on average.
From 1956 onwards, the name Deward became even less common, with fewer than 15 births per year until 1978. In the last few years of the dataset (1978 to 1981), there were between 5 and 8 births per year.
Overall, while the name Deward was relatively popular in the early to mid-20th century in the United States, it became less so over time, with a significant decline after the 1920s. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, it had become quite rare, with fewer than 10 births per year.