Boy Name · Germanic Origin
Howard
Last reviewed: June 2026
Howard — a boy name from the Germanic tradition — is a popular favorite that still feels personal. Its meaning, "Brave heart", anchors the name in something deeper than sound alone. If Hayward is on your shortlist, Howard belongs in the same conversation.
Names like Howard
Frequently asked about Howard
What does the name Howard mean?
Howard means "Brave heart" and is of Germanic origin.
What is the origin of Howard?
Howard originates in Germanic naming tradition.
How do you pronounce Howard?
Howard has 6 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable.
Is Howard a boy's or girl's name?
Howard is primarily used as a boy's name in US records.
How popular is Howard in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Howard sits in the Top 250 tier — a popular favorite that still feels personal.
What names are similar to Howard?
Names that share Howard's sound and style include Hayward, Heyward, Hertha, Hardy, Horatio.