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Last Name Feillard

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What is the origin of the last name Feillard?

The surname Feillard is of French origin. It is derived from a professional name for a fielder or reaper, from the Old French word "feu" meaning field and "lard" meaning servant. This surname was common in France and was later taken by various families when they emigrated to other countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Feillard

The meaning and origin of the last name Feillard

The surname Feillard is a French name derived from the Old French word "feu," meaning "fire," and "lard," meaning "guard" or "protector." This surname may have originated as a metaphorical reference to someone who was fiery or passionate, or it could have been an occupational name for a watchman or guard. The name Feillard is also found in Belgium and the Netherlands due to historical migration patterns from France. Over time, various spellings of this surname have emerged, including Fayard, Feijoo, and Felder, reflecting regional dialects and changes over the centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Feillard

The surname Feillard has a predominant presence in France, with the highest concentration found in regions such as Brittany, Normandy, and the Loire Valley. In Brittany, it is particularly prominent in the departments of Côtes-d'Armor and Ille-et-Vilaine. Beyond France, significant numbers of Feillard descendants can be traced to Quebec, Canada, due to French colonization and subsequent migrations. Additionally, smaller populations of individuals bearing the name can be found in Belgium, Switzerland, and the United States. In the U.S., concentrations are mostly located in states with a strong French-American heritage like Louisiana, California, and Massachusetts.

Variants and spellings of the last name Feillard

The surname Feillard has several variations and spellings due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variations include Félyard, Feilarde, Felhard, Felhart, Feliard, Felyard, and Philiard. These variants originate from a French name that means "keeper of the field." The name may also be found as Filliard or Philiard in regions where French influence is strong. Additionally, there might be slight spelling differences due to individual preferences or local dialects, such as Feilhardt or Feylhard. These variations and spellings highlight the diverse heritage of individuals with the surname Feillard.

Famous people with the last name Feillard

Notable individuals with the surname Feillard include:

1. Jean-Marie Le Feillard (born 1948), French musician and composer, known for his work in various genres including jazz and classical music.

2. Charles Feillard (1750-1803), a prominent French naval officer during the late 18th century. He served under Napoleon Bonaparte and played key roles in several naval battles, including the Battle of the Nile.

3. Marc Feillard (born 1963), a French author who has published numerous books for children and young adults, often focusing on historical and adventurous themes.

4. Jean-Luc Feillard (born 1951), a French mathematician recognized for his work in algebraic geometry and number theory. He is a member of the French Academy of Sciences.

These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields, including music, naval warfare, literature, and mathematics.

Genealogical research on the last name Feillard

The surname Feillard originates from France and is derived from the Old French word "feu" meaning fire, and "hard", hardy or brave. It was often given as an occupational name to someone who tended a blacksmith's forge. In genealogical records, variations in the spelling of Feillard over time include Felard, Felarde, Felart, and Felardeau. The Feillard family can be traced back to the 13th century in Normandy, with notable branches in Paris and Brittany. One lineage moved to Switzerland in the 16th century and eventually settled in Geneva. Another branch migrated to Quebec, Canada, in the 17th century as part of the French colonial expansion. The Feillard family has since spread across North America, with significant populations in the United States and Canada.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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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.

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