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Last Name Goude

What is the origin of the last name Goude?

The surname Goude is of French origin. It is derived from a variety of sources, primarily from the Old French word "god" meaning "good," which was used as a nickname to denote a person with good qualities or virtues. Another possible origin is from the Norman-French personal name Goduin or Godwin, composed of the elements god ("good") and win ("friend"). Over time, the spelling variations of this surname have included Godey, Goade, Goudie, Goudeau, Gouden, Goudon, and others.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Goude

The meaning and origin of the last name Goude

The surname Goude is a variant of the French name Gaude or Godet, which originate from Old German roots. The name Gaude, meaning 'joy' or 'glee', was popularized by the Crusaders who returned from the Holy Land in the Middle Ages and brought back various Christian names that were in vogue among the locals. Over time, variations like Goude emerged due to phonetic changes and regional dialects. The name may also have originated from Godet, a French surname derived from the given name Godé, a diminutive of Godin, meaning 'worker' or 'craftsman'. The surname Goude is predominantly found in France but has also spread to other countries due to historical events such as migration and colonization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Goude

The surname Goude is predominantly found in France, particularly in the western region of Brittany, where it originated. It is also common in other French-speaking areas, including Quebec, Canada, due to migration from Brittany during the 17th and 18th centuries. The name has also spread to the French colonies, notably Haiti, where it is a prominent surname among the Afro-Caribbean population. Outside of France, Goude can be found in smaller numbers in other parts of Europe, as well as in the United States and other countries with significant French immigrant populations. The name's distribution reflects historical migration patterns and cultural ties to Brittany and French colonies.

Variants and spellings of the last name Goude

The surname Goude has various spelling variations due to differences in transcription, pronunciation, and migration over time. Some common variations include:

* Goode (also spelled Gooday or Goodey)
* Goudé
* Gaude
* Guode
* Gaudeau
* Goade
* Gowde
* Goudet

These variations may stem from regional dialects, historical spelling differences, and the influence of other languages. In French, for example, the name could be written as "Gaudé." These variants share a similar etymology, likely originating from Old French words such as "gode" meaning "good" or "joyful," or from personal names containing the element "God(e)," such as Godric or Godfrey.

Famous people with the last name Goude

Notable individuals with the surname Goude include:

1. Jean-Paul Goude (born 1947), a French artist, photographer, and film director, best known for his work with brands like Chanel and Coca-Cola, as well as collaborations with celebrities such as Grace Jones and Madonna.

2. Claude Samuel Goude (1867–1934), a Haitian diplomat who served as Minister Plenipotentiary to the United States from 1906 to 1911, during which time he played an instrumental role in preserving Haiti's sovereignty.

3. Sébastien Goude (born 1984), a French former professional footballer who spent most of his career playing for various clubs in France, including Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille.

4. Edouard Goude (1907-1975), a Haitian composer, musician, and music teacher who is considered one of the pioneers of modern Haitian classical music.

These individuals have made significant contributions in various fields such as art, diplomacy, sports, and music.

Genealogical research on the last name Goude

The surname Goude originates from France and is primarily found in Brittany and Normandy regions. Its origins can be traced back to the late Middle Ages when it was a nickname for a tall, thin person, derived from the Old French word "gode" meaning 'tall' or 'thin'. The name may also have been occupational, referring to someone who made goatskin clothing. In England, the name became popular after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Notable individuals with the surname Goude include Sir James Goude, a British explorer and soldier who served in the East India Company during the late 17th century, and American musician Robert L. Goude (1923-2015). Variations of the name include Gaude, Godé, and Goode, which may have arisen due to spelling variations during various historical periods or as a result of migration.

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 : 27 July 2025

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