Pronunciation: [dˈʌɡləz hˈɜːd] (IPA) 
Douglas Hurd is a British politician and writer. His name is pronounced as /ˈdʌɡləs hɜːrd/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first name, "Douglas," is spelled with a "d," a "o," a "u," a "g," an "l," an "a," and an "s." The last name, "Hurd," is spelled with an "h," a "u," an "r," and a "d." In English, the "h" is silent, so the "u" and "r" blend together to make the "er" sound, and the final "d" is also silent.
Douglas Hurd, full name Douglas Richard Hurd, is a British politician and statesman who played a significant role in British politics during the late 20th century. He was born on March 8, 1930, and served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for over 23 years. Hurd belonged to the Conservative Party and held various key positions in government.
Hurd is best known for his role as a Foreign Secretary under the premiership of Margaret Thatcher and John Major. During his tenure from 1989 to 1995, he played a crucial role in shaping Britain's foreign policy and strengthening diplomatic relations. Hurd was known for his diplomatic skills, thoughtful approach, and commitment to international cooperation.
Apart from his role in foreign affairs, Hurd served in numerous other ministerial positions such as Home Secretary, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Secretary of State for the Environment, and Secretary of State for Employment. His extensive experience in government made him a respected figure within the Conservative Party and across the political spectrum.
After retiring from politics in 1997, Hurd pursued a career in writing and contributing to public debates. He authored several books, including political biographies, historical works, and memoirs, shedding light on his own experiences and providing insights into British politics.
Throughout his career, Douglas Hurd was regarded as a steadfast and astute politician, renowned for his integrity, intellect, and composed demeanor. He made substantial contributions to British politics and diplomacy, leaving a lasting impact on the country's foreign policy.
The term "Douglas Hurd" does not have an etymology in the traditional sense, as it is a proper noun referring to a person's name. The name "Douglas" is of Scottish origin and was originally a surname derived from the Gaelic word "dubh" meaning "dark" or "black" and "ghlas" meaning "stream" or "water". It eventually became a popular given name. "Hurd", on the other hand, is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "hyrde" meaning "herd" or "shepherd". Therefore, the name "Douglas Hurd" is a combination of these two surnames, likely indicating an ancestral connection or family association with these names.
