Last Name Froment

Learn more about the origin of the last name Froment

The meaning and origin of the last name Froment

The surname Froment is of French origin, derived from the Old French word "froment," which means "wheat" or "grain." It was likely used as an occupational name for someone who worked with wheat, such as a miller, baker, or farmer. Alternatively, it may have been a topographic name for someone who lived near a field of wheat. The name first appeared in the Middle Ages and became widespread across France during the Late Middle Ages and Early Modern Period. Today, the surname is found primarily in French-speaking regions, as well as among French diaspora communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Froment

The surname Froment is primarily found in France, particularly in the western regions such as Brittany and Normandy, where it has historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages. The name also appears with significant frequency in Quebec, Canada, due to French colonization and subsequent immigration from France. Smaller numbers of people bearing the name Froment can be found in various parts of Europe and America, reflecting the dispersal of French-speaking immigrants over centuries. In addition, there are populations with the surname Froment in countries that have historically had large French expatriate communities, such as Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and some African and Caribbean nations. The name's geographical distribution thus spans continents, reflecting the rich history of French emigration and cultural influence.

Variants and spellings of the last name Froment

The surname "Froment" has several variations and spellings, including:

1. Fromond
2. Fromenteau
3. Fromenteau-Dupin
4. Fromentel
5. Fromentin
6. Fromentiou
7. Fromenton
8. Fröhmann (German)
9. Froemmel (German)
10. Frömendal (Scandinavian)
11. Frömenthal (Scandinavian)
12. Frömentz (Scandinavian)
13. Fröhmanns-Keller (German compound name)
14. Froemelshausen (German compound name)
15. Frömendahl (Scandinavian compound name).

These variations may result from differences in regional dialects, transcription errors, or intentional alterations over time. It is important to note that surnames can also undergo changes due to cultural assimilation and immigration. The correct spelling for an individual can often be found by tracing their family history or genealogy.

Famous people with the last name Froment

Among the prominent figures sharing the surname Froment are:

1. Jacques Froment (1794-1863), a French politician and writer who served as Minister of Public Instruction during the Second Republic of France. He played a significant role in expanding education throughout the country.

2. Albert Froment (1809-1865), also a French politician, was a member of the National Assembly from 1849 to 1851 and later served as Minister of Justice in the Second Empire of Napoleon III.

3. Charles Froment (1827-1898) was a French architect known for his work on public buildings such as the Palais du Louvre, Paris Opera House, and the Eiffel Tower's administrative building.

4. Pierre Froment-Meurice (born 1953), a French astronaut, has worked for the European Space Agency and NASA, spending over 20 days in space during two missions on board the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

Genealogical research on the last name Froment

The surname Froment originates from France and is derived from the Old French word "froment," which means "wheat." This name was often given to someone who lived near a field of wheat or to someone who worked with it.

The earliest recorded occurrence of the name can be traced back to the 12th century in Normandy, France. The family expanded and migrated during the Middle Ages, with branches settling in various regions including Burgundy, Champagne, and Picardy. During this period, members of the Froment family served as knights, priests, merchants, and craftsmen.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the name spread to other parts of Europe, with significant numbers in Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. In the 18th century, many Froments emigrated from France to North America, primarily settling in Quebec, Canada, and later in the United States.

Today, the Froment family can be found across the globe, with large populations in France, Canada, the United States, and other countries where French-speaking immigrants settled. The name remains popular due to its strong historical roots and unique origin.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Froment"
• 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 : 12 June 2025