Last Name Duprat

The surname "Duprat" is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French words 'dupre' meaning 'oak tree' and 'prat' meaning 'meadow', combined to mean 'oak meadow'. This was originally a geographical name for someone who lived by an oak-covered meadow or field, but it was later used as a hereditary surname. In modern times, variations of this name can be found across French-speaking regions and among French descendants worldwide.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Duprat

The meaning and origin of the last name Duprat

The surname Duprat is of French origin, derived from the Old Occitan term "deu prat," which translates to "of the meadow" or "of the pasture." It was primarily used by individuals who lived near open fields, pastures, or meadows and was one of the many occupational or geographical surnames that became prevalent in medieval Europe during the High Middle Ages (1050-1250 AD). This naming practice allowed people to easily identify others from their place of origin, profession, or family by using a distinct surname. The Duprat family name is believed to have emerged in southern France and later spread throughout the region as the French feudal system developed and the use of hereditary surnames became more widespread.

Geographical distribution of the last name Duprat

The surname Duprat is primarily distributed across France, particularly in regions such as Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and Rhône-Alpes, suggesting a historical association with these areas. A significant number of people bearing the name can also be found in the departments of Saône-et-Loire, Doubs, and Ain. However, Duprat is not exclusively French, as the name has also been identified in other French-speaking countries such as Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada due to migration and cultural exchanges over time. Additionally, small populations of individuals with the surname Duprat can be found in various parts of Europe, North America, and Africa, highlighting dispersals through global events like colonization and immigration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Duprat

The surname Duprat possesses several variations and spellings due to regional dialects, transcription errors over time, and individual preferences. Some of these variations include Du Prat, Duphra, Duphar, Duparto, D'Uprath, D'Upret, and Duprateau. The name originates from France, with "Duprat" being the most common form derived from the Latin 'de' (of) and 'pratum' (meadow or pasture). Other forms may have arisen as a result of phonetic changes, regional dialects, or transcription errors in official records.

Famous people with the last name Duprat

The Duprat family has produced several notable figures across various fields. In the realm of music, there is Jean-Pierre Duprat (born 1946), a French operatic baritone who has performed with the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Paris Opera. In literature, Maurice Duprat (1907-1982) was a prominent French author known for his works like "Le Rire" and "La Chair". In the scientific community, Georges Duprat (1934-2016), a French paleontologist, was renowned for his studies on fossilized eggs and embryos. Lastly, in the world of business, Xavier Duprat is a French entrepreneur who co-founded SenseGems, a company developing digital solutions for the luxury industry. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements of those bearing the surname Duprat.

Genealogical research on the last name Duprat

The surname Duprat is of French origin, derived from "du Prat" which translates to "of the meadow" or "field". It is believed that the earliest known bearer of this name was Aymar du Prat, who lived in the 13th century in Normandy. The family moved southwards during the Middle Ages and settled in various regions including Provence and Languedoc. Throughout history, members of the Duprat family held positions of influence, with some becoming knights, noblemen, and even bishops. Notable figures include François Duprat, Cardinal-Bishop of Avignon during the 16th century, and Charles-François Duprat, a prominent physician in the 18th century. The name Duprat can still be found throughout France today, as well as in other countries with significant French influence such as Canada, the United States, and various countries in Africa.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Duprat"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 : 14 June 2025

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