Byrd is an English surname and given name of medieval origin, derived from the Old English word 'byrde', which means bird. It was initially used as a nickname for someone who resembled a bird in some way, such as having a beak-like nose or being swift and light like one. The name Byrd has been associated with notable figures throughout history, including the influential American composer Charles Ives, whose work is often characterized by its innovative use of musical elements inspired by birdsong. In literature, it is perhaps best known for appearing in the works of T.S. Eliot, who was a distant cousin of the famous aviator Byrd Tracy. Today, Byrd remains a unique and distinctive name choice, standing out among more common alternatives while still retaining a historical precedent and connection to nature.
The name Byrd experienced fluctuations in popularity throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a peak of 16 births in 1893.