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Last Name Baillard

What is the origin of the last name Baillard?

The surname Baillard is of French origin and derives from the Old French "baille" meaning a hall or courtyard. It was often used as a topographic name for someone who lived near such a place. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational name for a steward or a keeper of a manor house, derived from the same root. The spelling variations include Bailard, Ballard, and Baillardeau among others.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Baillard

The meaning and origin of the last name Baillard

The surname Baillard is of French origin, derived from an occupational name for a bailiff, a term used to describe a royal official responsible for collecting taxes or managing lands on behalf of a lord. The name can be traced back to the Old French word "baillier," which means "to deliver." Over time, it evolved into the modern spelling of Baillard. In France, this surname is most commonly found in the regions of Normandy and Brittany, where feudalism was prevalent during the Middle Ages. The name may also have been used as a nickname for someone who acted like a bailiff or took on similar responsibilities, without having any formal ties to the nobility. Today, the Baillard surname is present in various parts of the world, including France, Canada, and the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Baillard

The surname Baillard is predominantly found in France, particularly in regions such as Normandy, Brittany, and the Rhône-Alpes. It is also commonly encountered in Quebec, Canada, due to French colonization and migration. In England, the name has a lesser presence but can be found notably in London and parts of the southeast. Baillard is also sporadically distributed in various countries with French historical ties or immigrant communities, such as Belgium, Switzerland, and the United States. The name's geographical distribution suggests a strong link to France and the French-speaking world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Baillard

The surname Baillard has several variations and spellings, including Bailhard, Baillarde, Baillart, Baillardeau, and Ballard. These alterations may occur due to regional dialects, transcription errors, or individual preference in spelling over time. The origin of the name is French, derived from the Old French 'baille' meaning 'a bale' or 'pack' and 'hard' referring to a high or steep place. Notable people bearing this surname include Jean Baillard, a French mathematician, and Jacques Baillard, a French politician.

Famous people with the last name Baillard

Notable individuals with the surname Baillard include:

1. André Baillard (1928-2006), a French actor and director who appeared in numerous films, including "The Four Hundred Blows" by François Truffaut.

2. Michel Baillard (born 1954), a Canadian ice hockey player who played for the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League.

3. Gérard Baillard (born 1950), a French politician who served as Mayor of Villeurbanne, France, from 2008 to 2014.

4. Pierre-Alexandre Baillard (1761–1823), a Swiss naturalist and botanist who was a member of the Société Helvétique des Sciences Naturelles.

5. Jean Baillard (1936–2021), a French Roman Catholic prelate who served as Bishop of Belley-Val de Saône from 2007 until his retirement in 2014.

Genealogical research on the last name Baillard

The Baillard surname, originating from France, is derived from the Old French "bailli," meaning bailiff or magistrate. Early records show that this lineage can be traced back to the Haute-Savoie region, where many Baillards were influential figures during the Middle Ages. Notable members of this family served as vassals under local lords and even held positions in the French royal court.

As France expanded its borders through conquest and annexation during the late Middle Ages and early Modern Period, so too did the Baillard family's influence spread across the country. One prominent branch of the family settled in Normandy and became known for their involvement in the wool trade. Another branch relocated to Paris and gained distinction through their service in various fields, including law, politics, and the military.

Over time, members of the Baillard family emigrated from France, establishing new communities throughout Europe, the Americas, and other parts of the world. Today, Baillards can be found in numerous countries, each with their unique lineage and history.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 25 July 2025

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