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Last Name Coffard

What is the origin of the last name Coffard?

The last name Coffard is of French origin. It is a variant of the surname Coffart or Cofart, which is derived from the Old French word "coffier" or "coffard," meaning a casket or chest maker or a carpenter who specializes in making coffins. This surname likely originated as an occupational name for someone who worked in the funeral industry or in woodworking. Over time, the spelling of the surname may have evolved into Coffard.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Coffard

The meaning and origin of the last name Coffard

The surname Coffard is of English and French origin, derived from the Old French word "coffre" or "coffard," meaning a large chest or cabinet. It is believed that the name was originally occupational, given to someone who made or sold coffers or chests. Another possible origin of the name is that it was a nickname for someone who was particularly good at keeping secrets or who was secretive in nature. The surname has variations such as Coffer, Cofferer, and Cofferel. Over time, the surname Coffard has evolved and spread to different parts of the world, particularly to English-speaking countries. Today, individuals with the last name Coffard can be found in various regions, with their ancestry tracing back to medieval Europe.

Geographical distribution of the last name Coffard

The surname Coffard is relatively rare and has a limited geographical distribution. It is most commonly found in France, particularly in the regions of Normandy and Brittany. The name may have originated from the Old French word "coffart," which means peddler or hawker. Additionally, there are some individuals with the last name Coffard living in other parts of Europe, such as Belgium and Switzerland. However, the name is not as prevalent in these countries as it is in France. There may also be a small number of individuals with the surname Coffard residing in North America and other parts of the world, but overall, it remains a relatively uncommon name with its highest concentration in France.

Variants and spellings of the last name Coffard

The last name Coffard may have several variations and spellings, including Coffart, Cofford, Cohffard, Cofferd, Cofard, and Coferd. These variations may have stemmed from different regions or dialects where the name originated, leading to slight differences in spelling over time. Additionally, names often went through changes as they were written down by record keepers or immigration officials, contributing to the different spellings that can be found today. Despite these variations, all of these spellings still retain the basic root of the name, which likely has a meaning or significance that ties them all together. The variations in spelling only serve to highlight the diverse ways in which a surname can evolve and adapt throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Coffard

There are no well-known individuals with the last name Coffard. The name Coffard is not a common surname and does not appear to be associated with any famous or public figures. It is possible that there may be individuals with this surname who have achieved some level of recognition in their respective fields, but they are not widely known outside of specific circles. As such, the name Coffard does not carry the same level of recognition and significance as more common surnames. It is important to note that fame and recognition are subjective and can vary greatly depending on cultural, geographic, and other factors.

Genealogical research on the last name Coffard

The last name Coffard has its origins in France, specifically in the region of Brittany. The surname is believed to be of occupational origin, derived from the Old French word "coffre", meaning chest or box. This suggests that the original bearers of the name may have been involved in the making or selling of chests or boxes. Over time, the name may have evolved to Coffard as it spread to different parts of France and eventually to other countries through migration and emigration. Today, individuals with the surname Coffard can be found in various parts of the world, with notable concentrations in France, Canada, and the United States. Researching the genealogy of the Coffard name could lead to uncovering more about the occupations, movements, and family connections of those who bear this unique surname.

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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