The name "Ned" is an English given name and a diminutive or nickname primarily for Edward. It can also be short for Edmund, Edgar, or Edwin. The origin of "Ned" comes from a linguistic process called rebracketing, where the phrase "mine Ed" (as in "mine Edward") was misheard or reinterpreted as "my Ned," leading to the nickname
. The root name Edward comes from Old English Eadweard , meaning "wealthy guardian" or "prosperity-guard," with ead meaning "wealth" or "prosperity" and weard meaning "guardian" or "protector"
. In summary, "Ned" is most commonly short for:
- Edward
- Edmund
- Edgar
- Edwin
It has been used as a familiar and endearing nickname since at least the 14th century and carries connotations of friendliness and approachability
