Last Name Hondelatte

The surname Hondelatte is believed to be of French origin. It is derived from a geographical location or a topographic name for someone who lived near a mill (moulin) on a bend or turn in a river (honde), hence, the name could be translated as "mill at the bend." However, it's important to note that surnames often had various origins and regional variations, so this is just one possible interpretation. Genealogical research can provide more accurate information about specific family lines.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Hondelatte

The meaning and origin of the last name Hondelatte

The surname Hondelatte is of French origin, specifically from the region of Hautes-Pyrénées in southwestern France. It is derived from a geographical location or topographical feature, indicating someone who lived near a small valley or hollow (in French, "honde") and a stream or water source (in French, "latte"). This surname likely originated during the Middle Ages as people started to take on occupational or local names to distinguish themselves from their neighbors. The Hondelatte name has been documented since the 13th century, with variations such as Hondelette and Hondelot also found in historical records. Over time, the spelling of the surname evolved due to phonetic changes, scribal errors, and migration patterns. Today, individuals with the surname Hondelatte can be found across Europe and in other parts of the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Hondelatte

The surname Hondelatte is predominantly found in France, specifically in the regions of Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Picardie, with the highest concentration in the department of Nord. However, its distribution extends beyond these areas, particularly in other French departments such as Aisne, Pas-de-Calais, Somme, and Oise. The name is also recorded in Belgium, particularly in the provinces of Hainaut and Brabant Wallon, suggesting a potential historical migration from France to neighboring regions. In terms of global distribution, individuals with the surname Hondelatte can be found in various countries due to emigration events over time, including Canada, the United States, and Australia.

Variants and spellings of the last name Hondelatte

The surname Hondelatte has multiple variations and spellings, primarily due to historical and regional differences in pronunciation and spelling conventions. Some of the most common variants include Hondelatte, Hondelatte-Lambert, Hondelatt, Hondelatte-Desmarais, and Hondelatte-Tremblay. Other possible variations may be found based on the specific family's immigration and settlement history, as well as regional dialects and transcription errors over time. Additionally, some individuals may have adopted slightly altered versions of their surname due to personal preference or assimilation into new cultural environments. It is essential to consider these factors when researching a family history with the name Hondelatte or its variations.

Famous people with the last name Hondelatte

One notable individual with the surname Hondelatte is Jean-Baptiste Hondelatte (1876-1943), a French astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of celestial mechanics. He worked at the Paris Observatory and collaborated with Henri Poincaré, a renowned mathematician and physicist, on various research projects. Another prominent figure is Jean Hondelatte (1924-2015), a French politician who served as Mayor of Saint-Riquier from 1977 to 2008. During his tenure, he played a key role in the town's development and preservation of its historical sites. In the realm of sports, Pascal Hondelatte (born 1964) is a French former footballer who had a successful career playing for clubs such as AJ Auxerre, Paris Saint-Germain, and Lille OSC. His accomplishments include winning the Coupe de France twice and being part of the squad that reached the UEFA Champions League final in 1995.

Genealogical research on the last name Hondelatte

The surname Hondelatte originates from France and is derived from the occupation of a "honderier," a feudal officer responsible for maintaining horses or livestock. The name can be traced back to the 13th century, with early records showing Guillaume Hundeler in the region of Picardy during the year 1287. Over the centuries, variations in spelling such as Hondelaitre, Hondelatte, and Hondelater have emerged due to differences in recording methods and regional dialects. The family expanded across France, with prominent branches in regions including Normandy, Brittany, and the Rhône-Alpes. In the 17th century, some members of the family emigrated to Switzerland and later to Belgium. By the 19th century, the Hondelatte name could be found among the French immigrant population in both the United States and Canada. Today, the surname remains predominantly in these countries, with significant populations in Quebec, France, and parts of Western Europe.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "hondelatte"
• 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 : 26 July 2025

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