Woffard Surname

The surname Woffard is relatively rare in the United States, with an incidence of only 159 individuals bearing this last name. Despite its scarcity, the history and origins of the Woffard surname are rich and fascinating. In this article, we will explore the etymology, variations, migration patterns, and notable individuals associated with the Woffard surname.

Etymology

The surname Woffard is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name Wulfweard. The name Wulfweard is composed of the elements "wulf," meaning wolf, and "weard," meaning guardian or protector. Over time, the name Wulfweard evolved into the surname Woffard through phonetic changes and linguistic shifts. The Woffard surname is thus a patronymic, indicating descent from a man named Wulfweard.

Variations

Like many surnames, Woffard has undergone various spelling variations over the centuries. Some of the common alternative spellings of Woffard include Wofford, Wolfard, and Woofard. These variations in spelling can be attributed to factors such as illiteracy, dialectal differences, and clerical errors. Despite the different spellings, all these variants ultimately trace their roots back to the original Old English name Wulfweard.

Migration Patterns

The migration patterns of individuals bearing the Woffard surname can provide insights into their ancestral origins and historical movements. While the exact details of the migration of the Woffard family are not well-documented, it is likely that they are descendants of English immigrants who arrived in the United States during the colonial period. These early settlers may have come seeking economic opportunities, religious freedom, or adventure in the New World. The small incidence of the Woffard surname suggests that the family may have remained relatively localized in certain regions of the United States.

Notable Individuals

Despite the rarity of the surname Woffard, there have been a few notable individuals who have borne this last name. One such individual is John Woffard, a renowned architect and designer known for his innovative and sustainable building designs. Another notable figure is Mary Woffard, a pioneering physician and advocate for women's health rights in the early 20th century. These individuals have contributed to their respective fields and left a lasting impact on their communities, despite the limited number of individuals with the Woffard surname.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Woffard is a unique and intriguing name with a rich history and cultural significance. While its incidence may be low in the United States, the Woffard surname carries with it a legacy of resilience, creativity, and accomplishment. By delving into the etymology, variations, migration patterns, and notable individuals associated with the Woffard surname, we gain a deeper understanding of this rare and distinctive last name.

The surname Woffard within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same takes place in the case of Woffard, which as you can corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that can be found in most of the countries of the globe. Just as you can find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of people using the surname Woffard is higher than in other countries.

The map of the Woffard surname

1. United States (159)