All about the name HAGGARD

Meaning, origin, history.

Haggard is an unusual and distinctive given name, derived from the surname of the same origin. It's likely that the name Haggard was adopted for use as a given name due to its association with notable figures in literature and history who bore the surname Haggard.

The most famous literary figure associated with the surname Haggard is Sir Henry Rider Haggard (1856-1925), an English author of adventure novels set around the world. His most renowned works include "King Solomon's Mines" (1885) and "She" (1887). These novels were instrumental in popularizing the genre of lost-world fiction, influencing generations of writers and inspiring many adaptations for film and television.

The name Haggard is believed to have originated from an Old English word 'hagar' or 'hagor', which referred to a tall, thin person. Over time, this evolved into the surname Haggard, often associated with people who were lanky or gaunt in appearance.

As a given name, Haggard is relatively uncommon but not unheard of. It's possible that parents choosing this name for their child are drawn to its unique sound, its literary associations, or both. The name Haggard also has the advantage of being easy to pronounce and spell, despite its rarity.

In terms of usage, Haggard is more prevalent as a surname than as a given name. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, there were no boys named Haggard born in 2019, but there were 53 males given the surname Haggard that year. This suggests that while Haggard is not a popular choice for baby boys' names, it's still recognized and used as a family name.

In conclusion, the name Haggard, when used as a given name, carries with it a sense of uniqueness and distinction, tied to its literary and historical associations. While it may not be one of the most common names chosen by parents today, those who do choose it for their child are likely drawn to its rare and distinctive qualities.