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Last Name Duquenne

What is the origin of the last name Duquenne?

The surname Duquenne is of French origin. It derives from the Old French words "du" meaning "from" or "of", and "Quen(ne)", which refers to a queen. This surname was often used in regions under the influence of the French language, including France itself, as well as Belgium, Canada, and other countries with significant French-speaking populations. The name Duquenne may have been given to someone who lived near or worked for a royal court, or it may have been a nickname for someone who bore a resemblance to a queen.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Duquenne

The meaning and origin of the last name Duquenne

The surname Duquenne is of French origin and is derived from the Old French term "duc," meaning "duke," and the diminutive suffix "-enne." Initially, the name may have been given to someone who was born in an area ruled by a duke or who held some position of importance under a duke. Over time, the name spread throughout France and its territories, eventually reaching other parts of Europe and later the Americas as French settlers and immigrants moved around. Today, the surname Duquenne can be found among the French-speaking populations in France, Belgium, Canada, and various other countries where French culture has influenced the naming practices. It is also possible to find variations of this name, such as Duquin, Duchenne, or Dequenne, in different regions and among different families.

Geographical distribution of the last name Duquenne

The Duquenne surname has its origins in France, specifically in the region of Normandy. Historically, it was most prevalent in areas such as Caen, Fauville, and the surrounding communes. Over time, people bearing the name Duquenne emigrated from France, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries to various French colonies, including Quebec, Canada, where the name is still common today. Additionally, there are significant numbers of Duquennes in Louisiana, United States, due to French influence in that region. The name has also been found in smaller populations across Europe, particularly Belgium, and in some parts of Africa and Latin America as a result of colonial expansion. In more recent times, the diaspora of people with the surname Duquenne extends to many countries worldwide, reflecting both historical movements and modern global migration patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Duquenne

The surname Duquenne has several variations and spellings. These include D'Hautecoeur, D'Hautecour, Dauquenet, Dequenne, and Duqueine. Each variation may have originated from slightly different regions within France, reflecting the country's rich history and diversity. The name Duquenne is believed to be of Norman or Breton descent, derived from the Old French word "duquaine," meaning "small duke." Over time, slight changes in spelling may have occurred due to phonetic shifts, regional dialects, or errors during transcription. It's important to note that while these variations share a common root, each may have unique histories and connections within genealogical research.

Famous people with the last name Duquenne

The Duquenne family has been associated with notable figures in various fields. Pierre Duquesne (1628-1706), a French sailor and explorer, played a significant role in the development of the fur trade in North America during the late 17th century. On the other hand, Pierre Duhem (1861-1916) was a renowned French mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to the philosophy of science. In the world of cinema, Jean Duceppe Duquenne (1943-2020), better known as Marcel Duchamp, was a leading figure in the development of conceptual art. He was born in France but spent most of his adult life in America, where he became associated with the New York Dada movement. Lastly, in literature, Maurice Duplessis-Duquesne (1896-1974), writing under the name Henry Miller, is known for his candid and influential novels that explored themes of sexuality, spirituality, and self-discovery.

Genealogical research on the last name Duquenne

The surname Duquenne originates from France and is a variant of the original name D'Aquin, meaning "of Aquin" or "from Aquitaine." The first recorded use of the name can be traced back to the 13th century in the region of Normandy. Notable members of the family include Jean Duquenne, who served as mayor of Rouen during the late 1400s, and Jacques Duquenne, a prominent French scientist and engineer during the 17th century. The name has also been found in Belgium and Canada due to migrations in the 16th and 17th centuries, with notable Duquennes in Quebec and the Maritimes. Today, the Duquenne family can be found in various parts of Europe, North America, and Australia. Research continues to uncover more about the rich history and diverse branches of this expansive family tree.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 12 June 2025

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