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Last Name Boidin

What is the origin of the last name Boidin?

The surname Boidin is believed to have origins in France. According to various sources, it's a variant of the occupational name "Baudoin" which comes from an Old French personal name "Bauduin", composed of the elements "bald" (bold) and "win" (friend). The surname may have been originally used as a nickname for a brave or bold person, later becoming a hereditary surname. However, it's important to note that surnames often had various origins, including geographical locations, patronymics, occupations, and nicknames, and the exact origin of a specific Boidin may differ based on individual family history.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Boidin

The meaning and origin of the last name Boidin

The surname Boidin is of French origin, derived from the Old French "bois," which means "wood" or "forest." This name was often given to individuals who lived near or worked within a forested area, as it served as a geographical indicator, much like other occupational or locative surnames. Over time, the spelling of this surname has evolved due to regional variations and changes in pronunciation. Today, variations such as Boideau, Boidieu, and Boydin are found among individuals with French ancestry.

Geographical distribution of the last name Boidin

The surname Boidin is predominantly found in France, with significant concentrations in Brittany and Normandy regions. It's particularly common in the Morbihan department of Brittany, specifically around the towns of Vannes and Auray. While its origin is unclear, some theories suggest it may be derived from a diminutive form of the occupational name 'Baudoin', meaning "builder" or "carpenter". The surname Boidin is also present in smaller numbers in other French-speaking regions such as Quebec, Canada. Its appearance in these areas can be attributed to French colonialism and migration patterns. Additionally, there are limited occurrences of the name in other parts of Europe and North America, likely due to French immigration or ancestry.

Variants and spellings of the last name Boidin

The surname Boidin has several variations and spellings in English, primarily due to differences in spelling conventions and phonetic translations over time. Some of these include: Boitin, Boedtin, Boydin, Boeudin, Byodin, Beaudin, Bedoin, Baydin, Boden, Boudin, Baudin, Beddin, Bayden, and Baiden. These variations may arise from regional dialects, errors in transcription or translation, or intentional alterations for personal reasons or assimilation purposes. It is essential to note that these variations can affect the genealogical research of individuals with this surname, requiring a broad search to find all possible instances and connections.

Famous people with the last name Boidin

Pierre Boidin (1929-2020) was a renowned French explorer and oceanographer, best known for his expeditions to Antarctica. He led numerous missions there, including the first French research station on the continent in 1964. Boidin's contributions to polar research were significant, particularly in the fields of glaciology and marine biology. He authored several books about his explorations, such as "Antarctique: Le Continent Blanc" and "Les Oiseaux de l'Antarctique." In 1987, he founded the Association des Explorateurs Français (AEF), serving as its president for over a decade. His son, Yves Boidin, is also an accomplished explorer who has participated in numerous scientific expeditions to various parts of the world. Both Pierre and Yves have received numerous awards for their contributions to exploration and conservation.

Genealogical research on the last name Boidin

The surname Boidin originates from France and is believed to have derived from various localities with that name. One such location is Bois-d'Haron, near Le Mans in Sarthe, where the family was first recorded in the late Middle Ages. Another possible origin could be from a personal name Boivin, which was popular during the same period. The Boidin family has been traced back to the 16th century, with notable members including François-René Tranquille Boidin, a French politician who served as a deputy in the National Assembly during the French Revolution. The Boidin family also produced several military officers and priests throughout history. Today, the name is predominantly found in France but has also been carried to other parts of the world by French immigrants.

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 : 29 July 2025

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