Save Type Surname (from occupation) Usage English Pronounced Pron. HOW-ərd [key · IPA] Meaning & History Occupational name meaning "ewe herder", from Old English eowu "ewe" and hierde "herdsman, guardian". See All RelationsRelated Names Given Name DescendantHoward(English) Same SpellingHoward (1) Categories animals, defence, occupations Entry updated January 22, 2019