Horwood is a surname of English origin. It is a locational surname, derived from a place name. There are two places in England called Horwood: one in Buckinghamshire and one in Oxfordshire.
The place name "Horwood" is derived from the Old English words "horh" meaning "dirty" or "muddy," and "wudu" meaning "wood." Therefore, the name means "muddy wood" or "dirty wood."
People who lived near or came from either of these places may have adopted the surname Horwood. As people migrated, the surname spread.
The surname Horwood can be found in various English-speaking countries, including England, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Variations in spelling are uncommon, but may include slight alterations like "Horward."
Genealogical research can often trace families with the surname Horwood back to specific regions in England.