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Last Name Argot

What is the origin of the last name Argot?

The last name "Argot" is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "argouste" or "argot" which referred to slang or jargon used by criminals and thieves in medieval France. Over time, the term "argot" came to refer more broadly to any specialized language or slang used by particular groups of people, such as craftsmen, soldiers, or students. The surname "Argot" likely originated as a nickname for someone who either used or was associated with this type of slang or jargon.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Argot

The meaning and origin of the last name Argot

The surname Argot has its origins in France, derived from the Old French word "argot" which meant jargon or slang. The term was often associated with thieves, criminals, or other marginalized groups who developed their own secret language to communicate without being understood by others. As a surname, Argot may have been given to someone who was known for using unconventional or secretive language, possibly as a nickname. Alternatively, it could have been adopted by a family who was associated with the underworld or had connections to a specific subculture. Today, the surname Argot may still be found in France and other French-speaking regions, carrying with it a legacy of mystery and intrigue associated with its historical origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Argot

The last name "Argot" is relatively uncommon and has a scattered geographical distribution. It is most prevalent in France, particularly in regions such as Nouvelle-Aquitaine, where it is believed to have originated. Additionally, there are small concentrations of individuals with the surname Argot in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Argentina, likely due to migration patterns and historical ties to France. In these countries, the name may be found in urban areas with larger French immigrant populations. Overall, while the surname Argot does not have a widespread presence globally, it maintains a presence in certain regions with French cultural influences and historical connections.

Variants and spellings of the last name Argot

The last name Argot can be found spelled in a few different variations. Some common variations include Argo, Argott, and Argots. Other less common spellings may include Argote, Argotte, and Argoot. These variations may be due to regional accents, changes in spelling over time, or even errors in recording of the name. Despite the different spellings, they all likely originate from the same surname, which may have its roots in French or Spanish language backgrounds. It is important to note that while these variations exist, they all represent the same family name and may be used interchangeably depending on personal preference or historical documentation.

Famous people with the last name Argot

There are no well-known individuals with the last name Argot. The name Argot is not commonly recognized as belonging to any famous or notable figures in history or contemporary society. It appears to be a rare surname that does not have any prominent individuals associated with it. While there may be individuals with the last name Argot who have achieved personal success or recognition in their respective fields, they have not reached a level of fame that would make them widely recognized or celebrated by the general public. Unfortunately, the name Argot does not carry the same level of recognition or significance as other more popular surnames in the realm of notable figures.

Genealogical research on the last name Argot

The surname Argot has its origins in France, specifically in the region of Brittany. The name is believed to have derived from the Breton word "argad" which means silver. It is likely that the name was originally used as a nickname for someone who was either wealthy or had a silvery or light complexion. The first recorded instance of the surname Argot can be found in the early 17th century in the town of Rennes. Over time, the name spread to other regions in France and eventually to other countries such as Canada and the United States through immigration. Today, individuals with the surname Argot can be found worldwide, with a significant concentration still in France and its former colonies. Researching the genealogy of the Argot surname can provide valuable insight into the history and migration patterns of the family.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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

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