Last Name Dutil

The surname "Dutil" is French in origin. It is derived from the Old French word 'utile', meaning 'useful' or 'helpful'. Over time, it evolved into 'Dutil(l)', a common French last name. This name was often given to children born on days when the family needed help with various tasks, symbolizing their usefulness to the family and community.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Dutil

The meaning and origin of the last name Dutil

The surname Dutil is of French origin, primarily found among French-Canadian families. It is derived from the Old French word "dutel," which means "the leader" or "the chief." Over time, it was adopted by various families who held positions of authority, leadership, or responsibility in their communities. The name can also be traced to Normandy, where it was originally a nickname for someone who acted as a guide or leader. As French-speaking settlers migrated to North America during the 17th and 18th centuries, they brought the name with them and it continued to be used by their descendants in Canada and the United States. Today, the surname Dutil is relatively common among French Canadians, particularly in Quebec province.

Geographical distribution of the last name Dutil

The surname Dutil is primarily found in French-speaking regions, particularly Quebec, Canada. It originates from the Old French word "du Talus" which means "of the slope", indicating a geographical location or a physical characteristic. Within Quebec, it ranks among the top 100 most common surnames, reflecting its historical significance and the region's French heritage. The name can also be found in France, particularly in regions like Normandy, where it shares similar origins. Additionally, there are instances of Dutil being present in other Francophone communities globally, such as Louisiana in the United States due to French colonization.

Variants and spellings of the last name Dutil

The surname Dutil has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in spelling conventions across regions and time periods. Some common variations include: Duтель (Cyrillic), Dutiel, Duteau, Dutoit, Dutot, Du Toit, D'Utiel, D'Utois, and Dutilh. These variations can be found in French-speaking countries such as France, Canada, Belgium, and Switzerland, where the name originated. The name is derived from a variety of professions related to woodworking, including "couvreur" (roofer) or "boisseau" (barrel maker). Some of these variations may also be found in regions with large French-speaking populations, such as Louisiana and Quebec in North America. The spelling Dutil is a modernized version of the original French form.

Famous people with the last name Dutil

The Dutil surname is associated with several notable individuals across various fields. In the world of music, there's Pierre Dutotil (1658-1742), a French composer and harpsichordist. He was one of the most prominent musicians in France during the early Baroque period. Another significant figure is Marie-Louise-Élisabeth Dutilh (1800-1873), a French actress who made her debut at the Comédie-Française, one of the world's oldest and most prestigious theater companies. In the realm of science, Albert Duthel (1902-1984) was a French geographer and ethnologist who made significant contributions to the study of South Pacific cultures. Lastly, in the sports domain, Marie-Pier Dutil (born 1976) is a Canadian ice hockey player who represented Canada at the 2006 Winter Olympics and won multiple World Championship medals with the national team.

Genealogical research on the last name Dutil

The surname Dutil is of French origin, derived from the Old French "du Til" meaning "of the tile" or "from the tile-making district." This name was often given to someone who lived near a location where tiles were made. The first recorded instance of the name Dutil in France can be traced back to the 13th century.

Over time, the family spread across various regions in France, with significant settlements in Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy. Some members of the Dutil family immigrated to Canada during the colonial period, particularly Quebec, where they contributed significantly to the development of the region. In the United States, a notable presence of the Dutil family can be found in Louisiana, due to French colonization efforts there.

Today, the Dutil family continues to thrive across France, Canada, and the United States. Genealogical research reveals a rich history filled with farmers, artisans, merchants, and pioneers who have left their mark on the communities they lived in. The Dutil name remains a testament to their enduring legacy.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Dutil"
• 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 : 10 June 2025

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