What does Durward mean and where does it come from?
Durward is of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English term meaning 'door-keeper'. Historically, it has been a surname and is relatively rare as a first name. The name may evoke images of strength and protection. It was recorded as a personal name from the late Middle Ages. Notable figures incl
Cultural significance
Durward has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of keeper of the door.
Peak popularity
Reached #514 in 1912 — currently #1258 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Durward?
Durward works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Durward Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Durward Rose
Floral · soft ending
Durward Mae
Sweet · timeless
Durward Claire
French influence · crisp
Durward Jane
Literary · strong
Durward Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Durward right now?
Holding steady — currently #1258 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1258 | 942 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1263 | 922 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1268 | 892 | ▲ up 2903 · +9811% births |
| 1980 | #4171 | 9 | ▲ up 189 · +29% births |
| 1975 | #4360 | 7 | ▼ down 798 · -12% births |
| 1970 | #3562 | 8 | ▼ down 1617 · -53% births |
| 1965 | #1945 | 17 | ▼ down 17 · -6% births |
| 1960 | #1928 | 18 | ▼ down 542 · -42% births |
| 1955 | #1386 | 31 | ▲ up 128 · +29% births |
| 1950 | #1514 | 24 | ▼ down 361 · -27% births |
| 1945 | #1153 | 33 | ▼ down 70 · -11% births |
| 1940 | #1083 | 37 | ▼ down 35 · -3% births |
| 1935 | #1048 | 38 | ▲ up 10 · -12% births |
| 1930 | #1058 | 43 | ▼ down 382 · -52% births |
| 1925 | #676 | 90 | — |
The story of Durward
Durward has been a beloved American name for over 140 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1884. With 2,873 total births recorded, Durward remains relatively uncommon.
Names that peaked alongside Durward in 1912:
Durward by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1890s | 39 | |
| 1900s | 82 | |
| 1910s | 724 | |
| 1920s ★ | 793 | |
| 1930s | 413 | |
| 1940s | 354 | |
| 1950s | 224 | |
| 1960s | 148 | |
| 1970s | 66 | |
| 1980s | 20 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
💎With 2,873 total births, Durward is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Durward?
What names sound and feel like Durward?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Durward also consider these
Common questions about the name Durward
What does the name Durward mean?
Durward means "keeper of the door" — a name rooted in Scotland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Durward?
Durward is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Durward?
Durward originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Durward?
Durward is a two-syllable name pronounced D ER1 W ER0 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Durward a common or rare name?
Durward is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.