Old French Last Names: A Comprehensive Guide to Meaning and Origin

Are you curious about the origins and meanings of old French last names? These names, passed down through generations, often hold fascinating insights into the history and culture of France. This comprehensive list explores the rich tapestry of old French surnames, delving into their meanings and revealing the stories behind their creation. Whether you're researching your own family history or simply interested in the etymology of names, this resource will provide valuable information about the fascinating world of old French last names.
1. **Achard:** A variant of "Richard," meaning "strong ruler" or "brave warrior."
2. **Adam:** Meaning "man" or "earth-born."
3. **Aigremont:** From the Old French "aigre" (sharp, sour) and "mont" (mountain), meaning "sharp mountain."
4. **Alard:** Meaning "brave ruler," derived from the Germanic name "Adalhard."
5. **Albert:** Meaning "noble and bright," from the Germanic elements "adal" (noble) and "beraht" (bright).
6. **Albin:** Meaning "white" or "fair-haired," derived from the Latin "albus."
7. **Aline:** A variant of "Adelaide," meaning "noble kind."
8. **Amaury:** Meaning "workman," derived from the Germanic name "Amalrich."
9. **André:** Meaning "manly," derived from the Greek name "Andreas."
10. **Angelier:** From the Old French "angelier" (carnation), referring to someone who grew or sold carnations.
11. **Antoine:** Meaning "priceless," derived from the Greek name "Antonius."
12. **Arnaud:** A variant of "Arnold," meaning "strong ruler."
13. **Aubry:** Meaning "elf-like," derived from the Germanic name "Alberich."
14. **Audierne:** From the Breton "Audren" (a place where it is muddy) and "erne" (river), referring to a place with a muddy river.
15. **Auger:** Meaning "helper" or "augmenter," derived from the Germanic name "Auger."
16. **Baptiste:** Meaning "he who baptizes," derived from the Greek name "Baptistes."
17. **Barbe:** Meaning "beard," possibly referring to someone with a long beard.
18. **Barthélémy:** Meaning "grooved furrow," derived from the Greek name "Bartholomaios."
19. **Baudouin:** Meaning "brave in battle," derived from the Germanic name "Baldwin."
20. **Beaumont:** From the Old French "beau" (beautiful) and "mont" (mountain), meaning "beautiful mountain."
21. **Bernard:** Meaning "brave bear," derived from the Germanic elements "bera" (bear) and "hard" (brave).
22. **Bertrand:** Meaning "bright fame," derived from the Germanic elements "beraht" (bright) and "rand" (fame).
23. **Blanche:** Meaning "white," derived from the Latin "blancus."
24. **Bouchard:** Meaning "famous warrior," derived from the Germanic elements "boc" (famous) and "hard" (warrior).
25. **Bourgogne:** From the Old French "bourg" (town) and "ogne" (a place with ash trees), referring to a town located near ash trees.
26. **Briand:** Meaning "strong" or "brave," derived from the Germanic name "Briand."
27. **Brun:** Meaning "brown" or "dark-haired," derived from the Old French "brun."
28. **Caillet:** Meaning "small stone," possibly referring to a place where there were many stones.
29. **Camus:** Meaning "flat-nosed" or "crooked-nosed," derived from the Latin "camus."
30. **Carlier:** Meaning "carter," referring to someone who transported goods by cart.
31. **Castel:** Meaning "castle," referring to someone who lived near a castle.
32. **Chabot:** Meaning "big-headed," derived from the Old French "chabot."
33. **Chambon:** Meaning "small room" or "chamber," possibly referring to someone who lived in a small house.
34. **Champeau:** From the Old French "champ" (field) and "eau" (water), meaning "field by the water."
35. **Chanson:** Meaning "song," possibly referring to someone who was known for their singing.
36. **Charles:** Meaning "free man," derived from the Germanic name "Karl."
37. **Chauvin:** Meaning "goat," possibly referring to someone who raised goats.
38. **Clement:** Meaning "merciful" or "gentle," derived from the Latin "clemens."
39. **Colin:** Meaning "little dove," derived from the Latin "columba."
40. **Cordier:** Meaning "cord maker," referring to someone who made ropes or cords.