Edwards

The surname Edwards is derived from the given name Edward, which has Old English origins. The name 'Edward' is composed of the elements 'ead' meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity' and 'weard' meaning 'guard' or 'protector'.

The Edwards surname has English origin but specifically derived from the Welsh patronymic naming tradition. It was common practice to form surnames by adding 's' to the end of the father's name. So Owen ap Edward(Owen, son of Edward) would become Owen Edwards. 

In Wales, the surname Edwards is most commonly found in Flintshire and Denbighshire, in Northeastern Wales. 

In the US, the surname Edwards is most commonly found in - 

1. Missouri

2. Virginia

3. Washington D.C.

4. North Carolina

- Henry M. Edwards - Judge, Author

- John Edwards - Poet, Writer