Last Name Amirault

Learn more about the origin of the last name Amirault

The meaning and origin of the last name Amirault

The surname Amirault is believed to have originated in France, particularly in the region of Poitou-Charentes. It has a fascinating meaning and history tied to the noble families of that region. Derived from the old French word "amiral" meaning "admiral," the name suggests a strong association with maritime affairs. In medieval times, an "amiral" was a high-ranking naval officer responsible for commanding fleets and overseeing maritime operations.

The Amirault surname likely indicated that the bearer had a notable connection to the sea, either as a distinguished sailor, shipbuilder, or someone who held a position of authority in maritime matters. Over time, some bearers of the name chose to migrate to North America, particularly to Acadia (present-day Eastern Canada). The Amirault families of this region played significant roles in the history of Acadia, enduring the expulsion by the British in the 18th century and later contributing to the development of French Canadian communities in modern-day Nova Scotia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Amirault

The last name Amirault has a predominantly French origin, and its geographical distribution is mainly concentrated in the regions of France and French-speaking provinces of Canada. In France, it is particularly found in the western regions, especially in the historic provinces of Normandy and Brittany. These areas have a rich history and cultural heritage, which may have influenced the spread of the Amirault surname within this region. In Canada, the name is commonly found in the province of Nova Scotia, especially in the Acadian communities. Nova Scotia has a significant Acadian population, and it is believed that many Amirault families trace their roots back to the original French settlers who arrived in the area during the 17th and 18th centuries. Although the name may be less common in other parts of the world, individuals with the surname Amirault can still be found in other French-speaking communities and regions with historical ties to France.

Variants and spellings of the last name Amirault

The last name Amirault has several variations and spellings across different cultures and regions. The most common variation is "Amerault," which is often used in English-speaking countries. Other variations include "Amireault," "Amero," and "Amireau." Additionally, due to various phonetic interpretations and transliterations, the surname can be spelled differently. These spellings may include "Amyrault," "Amerolt," "Amirall," "Amireult," and "Amirauld." It is worth noting that the spelling and pronunciation of the name can change depending on the ancestral origins of the family. For instance, in France, the original home of the surname, it is commonly spelled as "Amirault." Ultimately, the variations and spellings of the last name Amirault reflect the diverse ways different populations have adapted and recorded the name throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Amirault

1. Claude Ami̒rault - French diplomat
2. Jean Amirault - Canadian musician
3. Pierre-Amable Amirault - Canadian politician

Genealogical research on the last name Amirault

The surname Amirault is of French origin and can be traced back to the region of Poitou in western France. The earliest known records of the Amirault family date to the 16th century, primarily in the village of Moutiers-les-Mauxfaits. Over time, the family branched out to different parts of France, including the regions of Aunis, Saintonge, and even Quebec, Canada. In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, several family members migrated to Acadia (present-day Nova Scotia, Canada), where they became prominent figures in the Acadian community. The Amiraults played an active role in the development and survival of Acadia, enduring through its challenging history, including the expulsion of Acadians by the British in 1755. Today, the Amirault surname continues to be found in various regions, predominantly in Canada and the United States, where descendants of the original family have spread, contributing to the rich tapestry of their ancestral heritage.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Amirault"
• Global distribution of the surname 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 : 11 April 2025