Radford

Radford is a masculine name of English origin derived from Old English elements meaning 'red ford' or 'reedy ford,' initially referring to a river crossing that was either reddish in color or lined with reeds. Like many English surname-turned-first-names, Radford began as a topographic surname indicating where a family lived before eventually transitioning to use as a given name. It carries a distinguished, traditional English quality with connections to place and landscape. While never extremely common as a first name, Radford peaked in usage in the United States during the early 20th century. The name conveys strength and dignity with its two-syllable structure and 'ford' ending that connects it to other classic English names like Bradford, Clifford, and Stanford.

Pronounced RAD-ford.

As of October 2026, Radford ranked #11680 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1065 in 1885.