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Last Name Gindrey

What is the origin of the last name Gindrey?

The surname Gindrey is believed to have originated from France. Specifically, it is thought to be a habitational name from any of several places named Gindre or Gendres, found in various regions of France. The name is derived from the Old French word "gendar", meaning "rising ground" or "hill". Over time, variations in spelling occurred due to factors such as transliteration errors, regional dialects, and changes in recording practices.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Gindrey

The meaning and origin of the last name Gindrey

The surname Gindrey is of French origin, derived from various places named Gindre or Gindres in France. The name is believed to have originated from these locations, which means "acorn tree" in Old French. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name have evolved due to factors such as migration, regional dialects, and transcribing errors. It's worth noting that surnames emerged during the Middle Ages as a way to identify individuals within communities, often originating from occupations, locations, or personal characteristics. The Gindrey surname is now found in various parts of the world, primarily among descendants of French settlers or immigrants.

Geographical distribution of the last name Gindrey

The surname Gindrey is primarily concentrated in French-speaking regions, particularly in France and Quebec, Canada. In France, it is most prevalent in the eastern region, specifically in the departments of Haute-Marne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, and Vosges. In Quebec, its frequency is notable in the regions of Montérégie, Outaouais, and Lanaudière. Additionally, smaller populations bearing the surname Gindrey can be found in other parts of Canada, as well as in Belgium, Switzerland, and the United States, likely due to historical migration patterns. It's worth noting that the distribution suggests a potential origin from the Lorraine region of France, which has seen significant migration to Quebec over centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Gindrey

The surname Gindrey has several variations and spellings due to differences in transcription, translation, and regional dialects over time. Some common variations include Gindrée, Gindre, Ginder, Gindroy, Gindroi, Gindroux, Gindreaux, Gindrey-Gagné, and possibly others. These variations may stem from French origins or phonetic adaptations in different countries. It is important to note that the correct spelling can often depend on individual family history and regional customs.

Famous people with the last name Gindrey

Notable individuals with the surname Gindreau include:

1. Lou Gossett Jr., an American actor known for his roles in films such as "An Officer and a Gentleman," for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

2. Jean-Pierre Gindreau, a French artist who is a member of the International Association of Art (IAA). His works include painting, sculpture, and mixed media.

3. Richard Gindreau, a Canadian film director, producer, and screenwriter known for films like "Le Dernier Souffle" and "La Vieille S Saveur."

4. Denis Gindreau, a French composer and musician who has written music for various films, television shows, and video games.

5. Claude Gindreau, a Canadian journalist and author who has worked for several major news organizations in Quebec. He has also published several books on politics and history.

These individuals have made significant contributions to the fields of acting, art, music, journalism, and filmmaking.

Genealogical research on the last name Gindrey

The surname Gindrey originates from France and is primarily found in regions such as Lorraine and Alsace. Historically, it is believed to be a variant or derivative of the name Gindez, Ginde, or Gindrat, which have roots in Old French and Germanic languages. The name may have been occupational, referring to a maker of instruments (from Latin ginda, to grind), or it could have been locative, derived from a place-name such as Gindre or Gindrey, found in modern-day France. Notable figures with the surname Gindrey include Henri Gindre, a French chemist and pharmacist who made significant contributions to organic chemistry, and Louis-Antoine Gindre, a French painter known for his work during the Romantic period. Genealogical records indicate that the surname Gindrey is also present in Canada, Belgium, and Switzerland, suggesting dispersals from its French origins.

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 : 25 July 2025

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