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Last Name Caqueux

What is the origin of the last name Caqueux?

The origin of the surname Caqueux is French and derives from a nickname or occupational name for a cook or baker. The term "caqu" is an old French word that refers to a dough or paste, potentially suggesting a profession related to baking. Nicknames often formed an important part of medieval European identities before official surnames became widespread, and many surnames emerged from the various roles people held within their communities. Over time, these nicknames evolved into hereditary surnames, passed down from generation to generation. It's also worth noting that French surnames can often be traced back to specific geographical locations or historical events, but in this case, there is no direct evidence linking the Caqueux surname specifically to either of these factors.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Caqueux

The meaning and origin of the last name Caqueux

The surname Caqueux is of French origin, derived from various regional place names and nicknames related to animals or occupations. Specifically, it is believed to originate from the Old French word "caque" meaning "dung" or "excrement," possibly referring to a person who lived near a farm or was a farmer. Alternatively, it could be associated with a nickname for someone who had a particular physical feature or behavior resembling that of an animal, such as being sturdy or strong like a dung beetle. Over time, the surname has been spelled in various ways including Caqueux, Caquoix, and Caqueuxe, reflecting regional variations and changes in spelling over centuries. Today, it is most commonly found among French-speaking populations in France, Canada, and other parts of the world with significant French influence.

Geographical distribution of the last name Caqueux

The surname Caqueux is primarily found in French-speaking regions, with a significant concentration in France, particularly in the northwestern region of Brittany and the eastern region of Franche-Comté. It also has a presence in other parts of France, including the regions of Normandy, Picardy, and Alsace. Outside of France, the name Caqueux can be found among French-speaking communities in Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada. In Canada, the highest number of individuals with this surname are concentrated in Quebec. The distribution of the surname Caqueux reflects historical migration patterns of French-speaking populations within Europe and to the New World.

Variants and spellings of the last name Caqueux

The surname Caqueux has various spelling variants due to differences in spelling conventions and transliteration over time. Some of these variants include: Cagoux, Caquoix, Caquot, Caquette, and Caguet. These variations may be found across different regions and countries, with French being the original language where this name originated. Additionally, there might also be regional or family-specific spellings that may deviate slightly from these common forms. It is essential to note that while these variations exist, they all share a common etymological root, making them related surnames.

Famous people with the last name Caqueux

Caqueux is an uncommon surname, and there are limited records of famous individuals bearing this name. One notable figure is Jean-Baptiste Caqueux (1794-1868), a French botanist who made significant contributions to mycology, the study of fungi. He was a member of the Société Royale de Médecine in Paris and authored numerous papers on various aspects of fungal biology. Another notable figure is Pierre Caqueux (1925-2018), a French journalist who served as the director of Agence France-Presse from 1976 to 1983. He played a crucial role in expanding AFP's global reach and was instrumental in establishing its presence in several African countries during his tenure. However, it's essential to note that these individuals are among the most prominent figures associated with the name Caqueux.

Genealogical research on the last name Caqueux

The surname Caqueux is primarily found in France and Canada, suggesting its French origins. In France, it is most commonly found in the Brittany region, particularly in Morbihan department, where the name can be traced back to the late Middle Ages. One of the earliest known records of the name is that of Thomas Caquoix, who was recorded as a witness in a charter from Lorient in 1375. In Canada, the name arrived with French colonizers and is particularly common in Quebec. The Gagné-Caqueux family, one of the first to settle in New France, played significant roles in the development of the colony. Notable individuals bearing the surname include Jules Cqueux, a French author and critic, and Pierre Caqueux, a Canadian politician who served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Quebec. The name's variations, such as Caquoix, Kaquoix, and Caquois, further demonstrate its historical roots in France.

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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