Last Name Bonnin

The surname Bonnin has multiple possible origins, primarily rooted in French and Breton dialects. 1. In French, "Bonnin" is a diminutive form of the given name Bon, which is short for the name Jean-Baptiste or Jeanbon. It could have been used as a nickname for someone who resembled a baby (bébé in French) due to their youthful appearance. 2. In the Breton dialect, "Bonnin" can mean "little good one," derived from the Celtic roots "bon" (good) and "en" (little). This could be a reflection of the personality or character traits of an individual within a family. 3. Another possible origin is from the Breton place name "Bonnin," located in the Ille-et-Vilaine department in Brittany, France. It is unclear whether this toponym predates the surname or if the surname was originally given to people from that location. The exact origins may vary depending on the specific lineage of each family bearing the name Bonnin.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bonnin

The meaning and origin of the last name Bonnin

The surname Bonnin is of French origin, derived from the Old French word "bonin," meaning "little good one." It was often given as a pet name to children born after an easy delivery or birth, symbolizing joy and contentment. Over time, it evolved into a hereditary surname. The name Bonnin can be found predominantly in France, particularly in regions like Brittany, Normandy, and the Loire Valley. As with many surnames, it may have multiple spellings and variations over time due to factors such as regional dialects, handwriting, and migration patterns. In English-speaking countries, the name is often spelled "Bonnen," "Bonin," or "Bunyan" (with a different etymology in that case).

Geographical distribution of the last name Bonnin

The surname Bonnin has a significant presence across several regions, with notable concentrations in France and its overseas territories, particularly Réunion and Mayotte islands in the Indian Ocean, due to their historical ties with mainland France. In Europe, it can also be found in Spain, Belgium, and Switzerland, reflecting the French influence in these countries. The name is also prevalent among the French-speaking population of Quebec, Canada, which has a large French Canadian community. Beyond Europe, Bonnin is present in various parts of Africa and the Americas, primarily due to historical migration patterns and the colonial legacy of France. In certain African nations such as Senegal and Tunisia, it may indicate Arab or Berber origins, although this can vary depending on local customs and naming practices.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bonnin

The surname Bonnin has several variants and spellings, primarily due to regional pronunciation differences and historical spelling conventions. Some of these include Bonneau, Bonne, Bonnaud, Bonnot, and Bonnafe. These variations can be found among French-speaking families, particularly those originating from the region around the town of Bonnieux in Provence, France. Another variant is Bonin, which has both French and Breton origins. In English, Bonnin may also be spelled as Bonnen, Bonnee or Bonna, although these are less common. It's important to note that family names can change over time due to factors such as immigration, assimilation, and local dialects, leading to the wide array of spellings associated with a single root name like Bonnin.

Famous people with the last name Bonnin

Among the notable figures bearing the surname Bonnin are:

1. Louise Bonnin (born 1987), a British actress known for her roles in BBC series such as "Call the Midwife" and "The Last Post".
2. Nathalie Bonnin (born 1970), a French politician who served as Minister of State, Attaché for Cultural Action, and Spokesperson for the Government from 2005 to 2007 under President Jacques Chirac.
3. Jean-Baptiste Charles Bonnefoy de Bonnin (1846-1901), a French naval officer who led a number of expeditions in French Polynesia, including the discovery and naming of several islands.
4. Maud Bonny (born 1979), a Swiss actress known for her roles in films like "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" and "Clouds of Sils Maria". Although not strictly a Bonnin, her professional name is derived from the surname Bonnin.
5. Aglaé Bonheur Bonnin (1863-1940), a French actress who performed in various genres such as drama, comedy, and vaudeville. Known for her comedic roles, she was one of the most celebrated actresses of the late 19th century in France.

Genealogical research on the last name Bonnin

The surname Bonnin is of French origin, derived from the Old French word "bon", meaning good, and "homme", meaning man, indicating that the original bearer was considered a good man or noble person. Variations of this name include Bonneau, Bonne, Bonney, and others. The family lineage can be traced back to Normandy, France in the Middle Ages, where the first recorded instance of the name appeared around the 12th century. The Bonnin family played significant roles in various historical events during the medieval period. The family spread across Europe due to migration and colonial expansion, notably in Canada where many Bonnins settled, particularly in Quebec and Nova Scotia. Today, the Bonnin family is found worldwide, with substantial populations in France, Canada, the United States, and other parts of Europe and the Americas.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Bonnin"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

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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 June 2025

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