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Last Name Dufail

What is the origin of the last name Dufail?

The last name Dufail is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "du", meaning "of" or "from", and "faille", meaning "fault" or "flaw". Therefore, the surname Dufail likely originated as a locational surname for someone who lived near a geological fault or flaw in the land.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Dufail

The meaning and origin of the last name Dufail

The surname Dufail is of French origin and is derived from the Old French word "du faille," which means "of the missing" or "of the failure." It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was known for having a missing or defective limb. Another possible origin of the surname could be related to someone who was deemed to be unreliable or unsuccessful in their endeavors. Over time, the surname Dufail has likely been modified and anglicized to its current form. As with many surnames, variations in spelling may exist due to regional dialects and pronunciation. Today, individuals with the surname Dufail can be found around the world, with varying family histories and ancestral connections.

Geographical distribution of the last name Dufail

The surname Dufail appears to have a limited geographical distribution, primarily concentrated in France. It is most commonly found in the regions of Brittany and Pays de la Loire, with smaller concentrations in Normandy and Île-de-France. Outside of France, there are very few instances of the surname Dufail being reported in other countries. This suggests that the surname may have originated in France and has remained predominantly within the borders of the country. The distribution of the last name Dufail may also be influenced by historical factors such as migration patterns and population movements within France. Overall, the surname Dufail is likely to be a regional or localized surname within France, with little presence in other parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Dufail

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Famous people with the last name Dufail

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Genealogical research on the last name Dufail

The last name Dufail is of French origin and is believed to have originated from the region of Brittany in France. The name is derived from the Old French word "du faille" which means "of the ditch" or "of the gap". The Dufail family likely were landowners or farmers who lived near a ditch or gap in the land. Genealogical research shows that the Dufail surname dates back to the 17th century in France, and descendants of the family can still be found in various parts of the world today. Over the centuries, the Dufail family may have migrated to other countries such as Canada, the United States, and Australia, spreading their name and heritage in different regions. The study of Dufail genealogy can provide valuable insights into the history and roots of this ancient French 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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