What is the origin of the last name Gouardere?

The surname Gouardère is believed to have origins from France. Specifically, it's thought to be derived from various places named "Gourdérès" or similar variations, such as in the department of Landes. The name may also derive from personal names like "Guerrerius" or "Walterus," which were common during the Middle Ages and could have been used as given names, with the "-ère" suffix indicating a place of origin. However, it's important to note that surnames often evolved over time due to factors such as spelling variations, regional dialects, and migration, making the exact origin sometimes difficult to determine with certainty.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Gouardere

The meaning and origin of the last name Gouardere

The surname Gouardère is of French origin, derived from a geographical or topographical name. It originated from places named "Gourdères" in the Pyrenees Atlantiques region in southwestern France. The name likely comes from the Occitan word "gourdaria," meaning "a small gorged valley." Over time, various spelling variations emerged due to differences in transcription and translation, such as Gouardé, Gordère, and others. As French colonizers expanded worldwide, including to Quebec, Canada, some individuals bearing the name emigrated, spreading its use globally. Today, the Gouardère surname can be found among diaspora communities in various parts of the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Gouardere

The surname Gouardere is predominantly found in France, particularly in Brittany and the surrounding regions. Historically, it originated from the town of Quimper, which is located in the Finistère department of western Brittany. Over time, the name has spread to other parts of France due to migration and population movement. Additionally, there are also Gouardere families with French ancestry residing in various countries with significant French immigrant communities, such as Canada, the United States, and Australia. It's important to note that the distribution of this surname can also be influenced by spelling variations like Gourdier, Gourdyer, and other phonetic adaptations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Gouardere

The surname Gouardere has multiple variations and spellings due to differences in pronunciation and regional spelling conventions. Some common variations include Goarder, Gordiere, Gourdier, Gauder, Gaudere, and Gordaire. These variations stem from the original French name, which is derived from the occupational name "Gardier," meaning a gardener or watchman. Over time, the spelling has evolved, leading to the various forms seen today. In English-speaking countries, the most common spelling is Gouardere. However, it is essential to note that surnames may also have been altered due to factors such as immigration, assimilation, or errors in record-keeping over generations.

Famous people with the last name Gouardere

Prominent individuals with the surname Gouarder include:

1. Jean-Louis Gouarderes, a French economist and professor at Sciences Po Paris, who has written extensively on economic policy, globalization, and development issues.

2. Christine Gouzerh-Gourdère, a French philosopher and professor at the University of Strasbourg, known for her work in metaphysics, philosophy of mind, and the history of Western philosophy.

3. David Gouarderes, a French political scientist and expert on international relations, counter-terrorism, and radicalization. He is currently a research fellow at the European University Institute in Florence, Italy.

4. Anne-Laure Gouarderes, a French writer and journalist, who has authored numerous books and articles on culture, art, and society. She is also a frequent contributor to various media outlets.

5. Jean-Claude Gouardère, a French lawyer and former judge at the European Court of Human Rights, known for his work in human rights law and international justice.

Genealogical research on the last name Gouardere

The Gouardère surname originates from France, specifically the region of Brittany. The name is a variant of Guérin or Goury, both Breton patronymics derived from occupational names for a herdsman or shepherd. Early records show that the name was spelled variously as Gouardé, Gouardier, and Gourdere in the 16th century. Notable figures with this surname include Pierre-Louis Gouzien de Méré, a French mathematician and gambler of the 17th century, and Émile Goudeau, a Breton author and journalist. The Gouardère family is also known to have immigrated to Louisiana in the late 18th century, where they became prominent sugarcane planters. The name remains common among the Breton diaspora in France, North America, and other regions with significant French immigration.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

NomOrigine Team
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 :

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names