Last Name Beguin

The surname Beguin has roots in France and is derived from the Old French word "béguin," which means "young man" or "apprentice." Originally, the term was used as a professional designation for members of the religious fraternity known as the Beguines. The Beguines were women who lived a religious life outside of traditional convents in the Middle Ages, often working and living in community with each other. The name later became a surname, possibly given to individuals whose ancestors were associated with this religious order or who may have been named after a specific Beguine. It's important to note that surnames did not become common in Europe until the late Middle Ages, so the exact origins of many surnames can be traced back to various professions, nicknames, or regional places.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Beguin

The meaning and origin of the last name Beguin

The surname Beguin is of French origin, derived from the medieval occupation or location associated with the Béguines, a religious movement of laywomen in medieval Europe, particularly in Flanders and the Rhineland. The Béguines lived together in communities outside of convents, dedicating their lives to prayer, work, and charity, while also pursuing secular occupations. This name would have been given to individuals associated with these communities or residing near them. Over time, the surname Beguin evolved into various forms across different regions as a result of phonetic and spelling changes, such as Begijn, Beugen, and Béguinot.

Geographical distribution of the last name Beguin

The surname Beguin has its origins in France and is predominantly found in regions such as Picardy, Normandy, and Franche-Comté. It is also common in Belgium, particularly in Wallonia, reflecting the historical linguistic and cultural ties between these regions. The name has been carried by French and Belgian immigrants to various parts of the world, notably North America. In Canada, it is most prevalent in Quebec and Ontario, while in the United States, it can be found primarily in states with significant French-Canadian populations such as Louisiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The name also has a presence in Switzerland, particularly in the canton of Geneva, where it is thought to have originated from the medieval Beguine convents. Overall, the geographical distribution of the surname Beguin shows a strong association with French-speaking regions of Europe and North America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Beguin

The surname Beguin has several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, and historical periods. Here are some common variations: Beggin, Begyn, Beugin, Begyns, Begun, Beguen, Béguin, Bégyn, and Béguyn. These variations may stem from slight changes in pronunciation or spelling errors over time. Additionally, the name may have French, Dutch, or Flemish origins, with the original meaning being "beggar" or "mendicant friar." The name can also be found as a given name, particularly in France and Belgium.

Famous people with the last name Beguin

Notable individuals bearing the surname Beguin include:

1. Pierre-Yves Beguin (1928–1983), a Swiss ice hockey player who competed in the 1948 Winter Olympics and won a silver medal with the national team.

2. Denis Bégin (born 1959), a Canadian politician who served as a member of the House of Commons from 1997 to 2015, representing the riding of Terrebonne—Blainville for four different political parties.

3. Marie-Louise Beguin (1864–1938), a French suffragist and feminist who co-founded Ligue française pour le suffrage des femmes (French League for Women's Suffrage) in 1909.

4. Georges Bégin (1922–2012), a Canadian architect and urban planner, known for designing the Place des Arts complex in Montreal.

5. Jacques Béguin (1886–1965), a French actor who appeared in numerous films throughout his career, including "Pépé le Moko" (1937) and "The Earrings of Madame de..." (1954).

Genealogical research on the last name Beguin

The surname Beguin originates from medieval Europe, specifically France and Belgium, where it was initially used as a first name, derived from the Old French word "béguin," meaning a beginner or novice, often referring to members of lay religious groups known as beguines. The surname Beguin emerged during the High Middle Ages when individuals took on occupational or locative names based on their professions or places of residence. Over time, the name spread throughout Europe and was later brought to North America by French and Flemish immigrants in the 17th and 18th centuries. In terms of genealogical research, notable Beguin families include the Beguins of Ghent, a prominent beguine community in Belgium, and the Beguins of Paris, who played significant roles in charitable work and education during the Middle Ages. Today, the Beguin surname is predominantly found in France, Belgium, and the French-speaking regions of Canada and Switzerland.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Beguin"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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