Last Name Bogard

The surname Bogard is of Old French origin. It is derived from the Middle French "Bocart" or "Boquet," which meant "little bag." This name was likely given to someone who made small bags for various purposes, such as for holding tools or goods. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name varied across different regions, leading to numerous variations in its current forms, including Bogard, Bogert, and Bockard.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bogard

The meaning and origin of the last name Bogard

The surname Bogard is of Old French origin, derived from the personal name Bogart, which evolved from the medieval given name Boghard, Bohard, or Boghert. These names are composed of the Germanic elements "Bogi" meaning thought or mind, and "hard" meaning brave or hardy. The name was brought to England by the Normans after their conquest in 1066, where it underwent various spellings including Bogard, Boggard, Bogart, and Bogarde. Over time, as families migrated across Europe and the Atlantic, the spelling of the name became more standardized into its current form. The surname Bogard is relatively uncommon in comparison to other French surnames, with concentrations primarily in France, England, and the United States. Notable figures bearing this name include actor Humphrey Bogart, known for his roles in films like "Casablanca" and "The Maltese Falcon".

Geographical distribution of the last name Bogard

The surname Bogard is predominantly found in the English-speaking world, with a significant concentration in the United States. According to data from FamilyEducation.com, it ranks highest in states like Texas, California, and Florida. In the U.K., the name is relatively common in areas with historical Viking influence such as Northumbria, Yorkshire, and Lincolnshire. Other notable occurrences of Bogard can be found in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, indicating a dispersal of families from these Anglophone countries over time. The origin of the name is believed to be Old Norse or French, suggesting possible Viking or Norman invasions as potential sources for its spread.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bogard

The surname Bogard has several variants and spellings across different regions. Some common variations include Bogerd, Boggard, Bohgard, and Boghart. These differences may arise due to spelling conventions, phonetic changes over time, or regional dialects. Additionally, some people with this name may have altered the spelling slightly to make it easier to pronounce or to fit local naming traditions. For instance, in British English, Boggard might be more common, while Bohgard could be found in German-speaking regions. Similarly, Boghard or Boghart may appear among Dutch or American families with this heritage. Despite these variations, all versions share a common origin and are derived from the Old Norse name "Bogi", meaning messenger or herald.

Famous people with the last name Bogard

The Bogard surname is associated with notable figures in various fields of human endeavor. One prominent individual is Jeff Bogard, an American professional wrestler who competed in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). In the world of music, there's Stevie Bogarz, a record producer and musician, known for his work with artists like Journey, Santana, and Cheap Trick. Moreover, there is Cynthia Bogard, an American film and television actress who had recurring roles in series such as "Melrose Place" and "Charmed." In the realm of visual arts, John Singer Sargent's sister, Emily Sargent Bogard, was a skilled painter. Lastly, William Bogard Jr., a U.S. Navy officer, became notable for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War, earning him the Medal of Honor in 1967. The Bogard family has produced a diverse range of accomplished individuals throughout history.

Genealogical research on the last name Bogard

The surname Bogard is of Old French origin, derived from the given name Bogart, which was introduced to England by the Normans following the Conquest in 1066. The name Bogart itself is thought to be a diminutive form of Robert, meaning "bright fame." Variations in the spelling of the surname over time include Bogarde, Bogardus, and Boger. One notable individual with this surname is Jean-Baptiste Vianney Bogard (1808-1864), also known as Venerable John Vianney, a French Roman Catholic priest who served as the parish priest of Ars-sur-Formans and was popularly known as the "Curé d'Ars." His life and virtues have been the subject of much veneration in the Catholic Church. Today, the Bogard family can be found primarily in France, the United States, Canada, and other countries with significant French influence.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Bogard"
• 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 : 10 June 2025

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