What is the origin of the last name Goujon?

The surname Goujon is believed to have French origins. It is derived from a given name, specifically "Gaujot" or "Gautier," which were popular names during the Middle Ages. The name Goujon may have been originally a nickname for someone who was sturdy or strong, as it comes from the Old French word "gaucher," meaning left-handed. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname have varied due to regional dialects and changes in the language's orthography.
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Learn more about the origin of the last name Goujon

The meaning and origin of the last name Goujon

The surname Goujon is a French patronymic name, derived from a given name. It originates from the medieval period, where it was a pet form of the personal name Guillaume (William) or its diminutive forms, such as Gille or Gillet. Over time, these names evolved into various regional dialectal variations, one of which became Goujon. The "-on" ending is a common suffix in French surnames, often denoting occupational origins or nicknames based on physical characteristics or personal traits. In the case of Goujon, it's possible that it might have originated from someone who was small or youthful, as "goujons" also refers to small fish or pieces of meat in French culinary terms. However, the exact origins are not entirely clear and may vary based on specific family histories.

Geographical distribution of the last name Goujon

The surname Goujon is predominantly found in France, with the highest concentrations in the regions of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and Grand Est, particularly in cities like Dijon, Besançon, and Épinal. Its distribution suggests that it may have originated from these areas. However, there are also significant numbers of Goujon families residing in other French regions such as Normandy, Brittany, and Rhône-Alpes. Outside of France, the name is less common but can be found in countries with substantial French expatriate populations, like Canada, Belgium, Switzerland, and the United States, particularly in states with high concentrations of French descent, such as Louisiana. The surname Goujon has a geographical distribution primarily centered around France, with notable dispersals among French diaspora communities worldwide.

Variants and spellings of the last name Goujon

The surname Goujon has several variations and spellings due to differences in regional pronunciation, translation errors, or individual preference. Some of these variations include Goujonn, Goujonne, Gojón (Spanish), Guaglione (Italian), and Gougeon. Additionally, there may be different transliterations from other languages, such as Гожуон (Russian) and गोशियान (Hindi). It's essential to note that these variations can lead to misinterpretation or difficulties when searching for personal records, making it crucial for individuals with these surnames to be aware of all possible spellings.

Famous people with the last name Goujon

The Goujon surname has been associated with notable figures across various fields and nations. In France, Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, an influential philosopher and political theorist known as the father of anarchism, was born under this name in the early 19th century. In a more contemporary context, Jean Goujon is a French professional footballer who currently plays for FC Lorient. In the realm of art, Philippe Goujon, a French artist and illustrator, has gained recognition for his detailed drawings and watercolors. Lastly, Michel Goujon, a French geologist and paleontologist, has contributed significantly to our understanding of the Earth's history through his research on fossils and sedimentary rocks. These individuals exemplify the diversity and achievements associated with the Goujon surname across various disciplines.

Genealogical research on the last name Goujon

The surname Goujon originates from France and is derived from the Old French word "gousier" meaning throat or gullet. This surname was typically an occupational name for a fishmonger, as the term gousier was also used to denote certain types of fish. Early records show that the name was first found in Normandy, where the family held a significant presence. Notable figures bearing this name include Guillaume Goujon, a French sculptor who worked on Notre-Dame Cathedral during the 14th century, and Nicolas Goujon, a French artist of the Renaissance period. The surname has since spread throughout France and to other parts of Europe due to migration patterns. In modern times, variations of the name include Goujonnet, Goujonet, and Gojon, among others.

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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.

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