Hilliard

Hilliard is an English surname of occupational origin, deriving from the Old English words “hyll” (meaning “hill”) and “weard” (meaning “guardian” or “warden”). It was used to refer to someone who lived or worked as a guardian or keeper of a hill or fortification. The name is found in records dating back to the 13th century and has since spread throughout the English-speaking world. Notable individuals with the Hilliard surname include American pianist John Hilliard and English composer Robert Hilliard.