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Last Name Berthelot

What is the origin of the last name Berthelot?

The last name "Berthelot" is of French origin. It is derived from the Old Norse personal name "Bjørnulfr," meaning "bear wolf." Over time, this name underwent changes and adaptations, finally becoming "Berthelot." The name "Berthelot" is primarily found in France and is relatively common in the regions of Brittany and Île-de-France.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Berthelot

The meaning and origin of the last name Berthelot

The surname Berthelot is of French origin and can be traced back to the medieval period. It is derived from the Old French word "berthel," which means "young bear." The suffix "-ot" is a diminutive, adding a sense of affection or smallness. Therefore, Berthelot can be translated as "little bear" or "baby bear." The surname Berthelot was likely initially given as a nickname to someone who had the characteristics or qualities associated with a bear cub, such as strength, fierceness, or protectiveness. Over time, it became a hereditary surname and was passed down through generations. Berthelot is a relatively common surname in France, particularly in the regions of Brittany and Normandy. It may also be found among French descendants in other countries, as generations of immigrants have carried their surnames with them across the globe. Today, individuals with the surname Berthelot can be found in various professions and industries, contributing to diverse fields such as arts, sciences, business, and more.

Geographical distribution of the last name Berthelot

The last name "Berthelot" is primarily found in France, where it has a significant geographical distribution. It is derived from the medieval personal name "Berthold," which was popular during the Middle Ages. The name can be traced back to the region of Normandy in northern France, where it is most prevalent. Today, it is found throughout the country, particularly in the regions of Brittany, Pays de la Loire, and Centre-Val de Loire. The city of Paris also has a notable concentration of individuals with this last name. Apart from France, the Berthelot surname can also be found in smaller numbers in other countries, particularly in Canada due to historic French immigration. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Berthelot is primarily centered around France, reflecting its origins in the country.

Variants and spellings of the last name Berthelot

The last name Berthelot has a few variations and spellings due to regional or historical influences. One common variation is "Bertelot," which is likely derived from the same source but with a slightly altered spelling. Another variation is "Bertellot," where the second "e" replaces the letter "h." Similarly, "Bertelott" is another spelling that reflects a potential pronunciation difference. In certain regions, the name might have Anglicized spelling variations like "Bertholot" or "Bertholo," which could have emerged as a result of anglicization during immigration or cultural assimilation. Additionally, the French-origin name might be spelled as "Bertelet," with a "t" at the end. The variations and spellings of the last name Berthelot enrich its heritage, reflecting the diverse paths that individuals and families have taken throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Berthelot

Auguste and Marcellin Berthelot were two famous brothers in France who both made significant contributions in their respective fields. Auguste Berthelot (1803-1889) was a renowned chemist and professor at the Collège de France. His studies on the synthesis of organic compounds and the behavior of gases laid the foundation for the field of thermochemistry. Auguste also played a vital role in establishing the Chemical Society of France and was elected to the prestigious Académie française. Marcellin Berthelot (1827-1907), on the other hand, was a prominent chemist and politician. He advanced Auguste's work in thermochemistry and greatly expanded our understanding of chemical reactions. Beyond his scientific achievements, Marcellin Berthelot was also involved in French politics and served as the Minister of Education. The name Berthelot resonates with great scientific achievements and contributions to the understanding of chemistry.

Genealogical research on the last name Berthelot

The Berthelot surname is a patronymic French surname derived from the given name Berthault, itself derived from the Germanic name Berhtwald, formed by the elements "berht," meaning "bright" or "famous," and "wald," meaning "rule" or "ruler." The earliest records of the Berthelot family date back to the Middle Ages in France. Over the years, the family spread throughout various regions, and its members engaged in diverse professions, including agriculture, trades, and academia. Notable individuals with the Berthelot surname include the renowned French chemist Marcelin Berthelot (1827–1907) and Jacques Berthelot (1939-), a French politician. Researching the Berthelot genealogy often involves examining parish registers, civil registration records, and other historical documents to trace the family's lineage and uncover connections to other families. The name Berthelot can be found not only in France but also across the world as a result of migration and global connections.

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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