Origin and meaning of the name Durand

The name Durand is of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Old High German name Thiuderich, which means "people's ruler." This name was later Latinized to Dudo or Thurincus and eventually evolved into the modern form Durand in French. The name became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly among the nobility.

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The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Durand

The name Durand is of Old French origin, derived from the Germanic personal name 'Theuderich' or 'Thiuderich', which means "people ruler" or "peoples' powerful ruler". This Old High German name was composed of the elements 'theudo' (people) and 'ric' (ruler). The name evolved through several variations, such as Thierry, Diederich, Theoderic, and finally Durand in French. Over time, it has been popularized in various regions, including France and England, where it persists as a rare but distinctive given name today.

Character traits associated with the name Durand

Durand is often associated with traits such as strength, determination, and resilience. The name Durand, derived from the Germanic word "thuri," meaning thorny or hardy, suggests an individual who is robust and enduring. Durands are believed to be persistent, tenacious, and capable of overcoming obstacles in their path. They are also known for their sense of loyalty and commitment, making them reliable friends and dependable partners. In addition, Durands are thought to possess strong leadership qualities, which can make them effective problem solvers and decision-makers. Overall, Durand is a name that suggests a person who is tough, dependable, and dedicated to achieving their goals.

Popularity of the name Durand

The name Durand is a less common choice among contemporary Western names, yet it retains an air of distinction due to its historical roots and associations with notable figures such as medieval troubadour Bertran de Born and French explorer Jacques Cartier. In the United States, according to data from the Social Security Administration, Durand ranked outside the top 1000 most popular boy's names between 2010 and 2020, indicating a relatively low usage. However, its unique sound and historical significance may appeal to parents seeking a less common name with a touch of old-world charm.

Famous people with the name Durand

Durand is a relatively uncommon given name, but it has been borne by several notable individuals across various fields. In the world of literature, Durand Lange (1876-1942) was a German author who wrote novels, short stories, and essays that explored modern life and social issues. In music, Durand Jones is an American singer, songwriter, and bandleader known for his work with the Durand Jones & The Indications, a soul/R&B group formed in 2012. In academia, Durant Soule Fischer (1856-1934) was an American archaeologist and linguist who made significant contributions to Assyriology, the study of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations. Lastly, in the realm of art, Durand Trachtenberg (b. 1929) is a renowned American abstract painter who has exhibited his work extensively both nationally and internationally since the 1950s. These individuals exemplify the versatility and accomplishments that can be found among those named Durand.

Variations of the name Durand

Durand is primarily a masculine given name of French origin, derived from the German Thuroald, composed of the elements "Thiud-" (people or race) and "wald" (rule). Variations of the name Durand include:

1. Theodorand, an early form of the name, also found in Old Norse as Þórarinn.
2. Thorand, a Scandinavian variation of the name.
3. Dudley, originating from the Anglo-Saxon Duddan, a diminutive of Duwarth, an old form of Durand.
4. Thurand, another variation derived from its Germanic roots.
5. D'Urville, a French aristocratic surname which was originally a place name and may be related to the given name Durand.
6. Torando, a possible Italian adaptation of the name.
7. Durant, an English form of the name that is commonly used as a surname but can also function as a given name.
8. Dorando, a variation of the name originating from Italy or Spain.
9. Dardan, a variant found in some Slavic languages.
10. Turandot, a feminine version of the name, popularized by the title character of Puccini's opera Turandot.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "durand"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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