The surname Combalt (or Combalter) is of French origin. It derives from a place name, specifically a locality named Combault, which can be found in several regions of France, such as Aube, Calvados, and Essonne. The name Combault is composed of two elements: "combe" meaning "valley" or "cove", and "bald" (Old French: balte), possibly referring to a flat-topped hill or an open space. Therefore, Combalt could be interpreted as someone originating from such a valley with an open space or flat-topped hill. However, it's important to note that surnames often have multiple possible origins and the exact history can vary based on specific family lineages.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Combalbert
The meaning and origin of the last name Combalbert
The surname Combalbert is of French origin, specifically from the region of Savoie, located in southeastern France. It is derived from the Old Occitan phrase "com balart," which translates to "with/at Balart" or "from the place of Balart." Balart was a medieval personal name composed of the elements "bal" (bald) and "hari" (army), meaning "the ruler of armies" or "bold warrior." Over time, the surname evolved into its modern form, Combalbert. The name spread throughout France during the Middle Ages as a result of various historical events such as migration, conquests, and marriages between noble families. Today, individuals with the surname Combalbert can be found not only in France but also in other countries where French immigrants settled, such as Canada, the United States, and South America.
Geographical distribution of the last name Combalbert
The last name Combalbert is predominantly found in France, particularly in the regions of Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Burgundy, indicating a historical concentration in the north-eastern and eastern parts of the country. Some instances of the surname also appear in Belgium, which borders northern France, suggesting possible migrations between the two countries. The name may have originated from the village Combarnus in Brittany, as suggested by some genealogical research. In addition, there are scattered occurrences of Combalbert in other parts of the world due to French emigration and migration, with communities found in Canada, the United States, and South America.
Variants and spellings of the last name Combalbert
The surname Combalbert has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variations include Combalbert, Cumbalbert, Combalt, Combalte, and Combeault. These variations may stem from regional dialects, misspellings, or errors during the process of immigration. It is also possible that the surname has different origins, such as a toponymic name derived from a specific place in France named Combalter or Combalt, or a patronymic name derived from a person named Combault. Additionally, over time, some families may have changed their names slightly to accommodate pronunciation changes or to assimilate into new cultures. These variations and spellings highlight the rich history and evolution of the Combalbert surname.
Famous people with the last name Combalbert
Notable individuals with the surname Combalbert include:
1. Philippe Combalet (born 1948), a French musician and singer who gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. He is best known for his hits "La Rue de Babylone" and "Je Suis Mort Subitement."
2. Édouard Combalot (1843-1915), a French painter known for his landscapes, still lifes, and genre scenes. He was a student of Jean-Léon Gérôme and exhibited at the Paris Salon regularly.
3. Pierre Combalot (1862-1940), a French civil engineer who designed bridges and aqueducts in Algeria, Tunisia, and France. He was a member of the French Academy of Bridges.
These individuals have made significant contributions to music, art, and engineering, respectively, and are notable figures associated with the surname Combalet/Combalot.
Genealogical research on the last name Combalbert
The surname Combalt is a rare variant and its origins are primarily traced to France. One significant branch is believed to have originated from the Normandy region, with a recorded presence in the village of Fresnay-le-Samson as early as the 13th century. Another branch is linked to the Haute-Marne department, where the family was documented during the 15th and 16th centuries.
The name has also been found among Huguenot immigrants in the late 17th and 18th centuries who settled in England, Holland, and the American colonies. In America, the Combalt family has been predominantly found in Louisiana, with some branches in Texas, Florida, and California. Notable figures bearing the name include John Baptiste Combault, a Louisiana businessman and politician during the 19th century.
Genealogical records indicate that variations of the surname include Combalt, Combault, Combalet, Combeau, Combelle, and Combelles. As with many French names, the spelling has evolved over time due to factors such as regional dialects, recording errors, and individual preference.
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 :
Share the origin of your last name with your friends
The surname Comabella is of Spanish and Catalan origin. It is derived from a place name, likely "Comabellas" or "Comabella", which can be found in various regions of Spain, notably...
The last name "Comadre Opetina" is of Spanish origin. "Comadre" is a term that means "godmother" in Spanish, and "Opetina" is likely a surname derived from a place name. The combin...
The surname "Comaita" appears to have Italian origins. It is possible that it is of regional or local origin, derived from a place name, occupation, or descriptive term. Further re...
The last name Comajuan is believed to be of Basque origin, which is a region spanning parts of Spain and France. Many Basque surnames are derived from the old feudal system where f...
The surname Comalada is of Spanish origin. It derives from a place name, specifically from a village named Comala or Comalata located in the province of León, Spain. Surnames orig...
The surname Coman is of Romanian and Italian origin. In Romania, it's derived from the personal name Cuman, which was given to people who lived in the area known as Cumania, a stat...
The last name Comanducci is of Italian origin. It is derived from the Italian word "comando," meaning command or leadership, and likely originated as a surname for someone in a lea...
The origin of the surname "Comani" is Italian. It is a surname derived from the personal name "Cumanus", which in turn is derived from the Latin word "Cumanus" meaning "from Comum"...
The surname Comba originates from Italy and Spain. In Italy, it is a patronymic name derived from the personal name Combazio, which is a variant of the Latin name Combinius. This n...
The surname Combacal is of Spanish origin and is believed to be locational, deriving from a place named Combacal in Spain. It may also have derived from a topographical feature or ...
The surname Combalier is believed to have originated from France. It is a toponymic name derived from a place called Combalier, which exists in several regions of France, including...
The surname "Combd" is of English origin. It is a variant spelling of the surname "Coombes," which is derived from the Old English word "cumb," meaning "valley" or "hollow." This s...
