There are appears to be some dispute as to the origin of this surname, but for each theory the name is derived from an occupation; be it standard bearer, stud farm’s man or ox herdsman. By the end of the 12th century, surname development had produced a wide range of spellings. These alternative spellings include Stodart, Stoddard, Stoddart, Stodhart, Studart, Studdard, Studdeard, Stiddard, and Studeart.