The surname Dovonon is of French origin and it comes from various place names in France, particularly in Brittany. The name could have origins in different locations such as Dupont (from du pont meaning "of the bridge"), Duval ("of the valley"), or Dejon ("from Jon"). Over time, these prefixes were often shortened or altered, leading to various variations of the surname.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Dovonon
The meaning and origin of the last name Dovonon
The surname Dovonon is believed to have origins rooted in France, specifically the region of Brittany. It's an unusual name that may have been derived from various sources, including topographical or geographical places, occupations, or even nicknames. One possible theory suggests that the name could originate from a place named Douvon or Douvonan, which exists in Brittany. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name might have evolved as families moved and settled in different regions. The name Dovonon, however, is less common and may be a variant or alteration of more prevalent French surnames like Duvaujon, Duvallon, or Douvillon. Regardless of its specific origin, it's clear that the surname Dovonon reflects the rich history and diversity of Breton surnames.
Geographical distribution of the last name Dovonon
The last name Dovonon is predominantly found among populations of Togo and Benin, two West African countries located on the Gulf of Guinea. This surname is part of the Ewe ethnic group's traditional nomenclature system, which assigns names based on various factors such as occupation, personality traits, or events at the time of birth. However, there have been migrations and dispersion of the Ewe people over the years due to historical events like the Abolition of the Slave Trade and the subsequent movement of laborers, leading to the presence of Dovonon surname carriers in other parts of the world, particularly France and the United States.
Variants and spellings of the last name Dovonon
The surname Dovonon has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transliteration and local dialects. Some common variants include Dovanon, Douvonon, Duvonon, Devonon, and Devononn. These variations arise from slight changes in pronunciation or spelling conventions over time and across different regions. Additionally, the name may have multiple origins, such as French (from the occupational name "fabricant de draps," meaning bed-maker), Russian, or African derivatives. It's essential to note that the exact origin of a specific instance of the name can depend on the individual's ancestral background and family history.
Famous people with the last name Dovonon
Notable individuals with the surname Dovonon include:
1. Sergei Dovonon (born 1962), a Russian professional ice hockey player who played for several NHL teams, notably the Detroit Red Wings and the New York Rangers. He was part of the Soviet national team that won the gold medal at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo.
2. Sergei Dovonon (born 1973), a Russian former professional ice hockey player, son of the abovementioned Sergei Dovonon. He played for various NHL teams and was a part of the gold-medal winning Russian national team at the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville.
3. Oleg Dovonon (born 1984), a Russian professional ice hockey player, son of the senior Sergei Dovonon. He has played for several NHL teams and is currently playing in Russia's Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Genealogical research on the last name Dovonon
The Dovonon surname is believed to have originated from France, specifically the region of Brittany. It is derived from the Breton personal name "Dubonan," which translates to "black nose" in English. This name was given to individuals who were dark-complexioned or had a distinctive physical feature resembling a black nose. The Dovonon family has been traced back to the 16th century, with recorded instances of the name in the parishes of Ploubalay and Saint-Brieuc. Over time, members of the Dovonon family migrated from Brittany, spreading throughout France and Europe, with notable migrations to Switzerland, Germany, and later, North America. In Canada, a significant number of Dovonons settled in Quebec, contributing to the cultural and historical fabric of the province. Today, the Dovonon surname is relatively rare but can still be found in various parts of the world.
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