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Last Name La-varde

What is the origin of the last name La-varde?

The surname La Varde is of French origin, derived from a geographical location or a place name. In this case, "La Varde" could have originated from a town called "la Verdée" located in Normandy, France. Surnames that end with "-eau" or "-eaux" often derive from bodies of water, while those ending with "-é" or "-ère" are more likely to come from places named with the word for wood, "bois." However, it's important to note that researching the exact origins of a specific surname can be challenging due to variations in spelling and inconsistencies over time. For a more accurate understanding, genealogical or historical records should be consulted.

Learn more about the origin of the last name La-varde

The meaning and origin of the last name La-varde

The surname La-Varde is of French origin, derived from the Old French term "La Verdée," which translates to "the green clearing" or "the cleared green." It's one of the many locality names that were originally given to landmarks in the countryside and eventually adopted as family names during the Middle Ages. The use of topographical names, such as La-Varde, provided a means for people to identify themselves by their place of origin. As French families migrated or settled in different regions throughout history, the spelling and pronunciation of the name may have evolved over time. Today, the surname La-Varde is found primarily among the French-speaking population but also among their descendants in various countries around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name La-varde

The surname La-Varde has a notable presence primarily in France, where it is considered a Breton variant originating from the region of Brittany. A significant concentration can be found along the northwestern coastal areas. Aside from France, the name is also scattered among the French-speaking diaspora, with smaller populations in countries like Canada, Switzerland, Belgium, and the United States. In these latter countries, it's most prevalent among French immigrants or their descendants, particularly in Quebec (Canada), Louisiana (United States), and parts of New England. Additionally, a few instances of the name La-Varde can be found in African countries, such as Senegal, due to historical ties between France and its former colonies.

Variants and spellings of the last name La-varde

LaVarde, LaVerde, Lavarde, La Vard, Lavard, La Varde, and La Vardt are some of the variations and alternate spellings of the surname LaVarde. This name is of French origin and is derived from either a topographic name for someone who lived near a ford or a river crossing, or a metonymic occupational name for a ferryman. In Old French, "la vard" means "the ford." It could also be a habitational name for someone from a place named La Vard in France. Variations may arise due to factors such as translation errors, phonetic changes over time, and regional dialects.

Famous people with the last name La-varde

LaVarde is a relatively uncommon surname, and its prominence is mainly associated with two notable figures from different fields:

1. James D. LaVarde Jr., a retired American general who served as the Commanding General of U.S. Army North (Fifth Army) from 2008 to 2011, and as the Deputy Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM) from 2011 to 2013. He has received numerous military decorations and is recognized for his contributions in counterinsurgency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

2. Alex Laverde, a professional soccer player who currently plays as a goalkeeper for the Chilean club Santiago Wanderers. Previously, he represented Chile at both the U-17 and U-20 levels. His career began with Colo-Colo, one of the most successful clubs in Chilean football history, where he won several championships.

These two individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, garnering recognition for the LaVarde name in the United States and South America.

Genealogical research on the last name La-varde

The surname La-Varde is of French origin, deriving from the medieval given name "Lavard", a compound of the Old Norse elements "laugr" (famous) and "vardr" (guard). This name was brought to France by the Normans in the 11th century following their conquest of England. The name La-Varde, specifically, is believed to have originated from the region of Normandy or Anjou. Throughout history, notable bearers of this surname include the French noble family of La-Varde, who were known for their service to the French crown in the 16th and 17th centuries. The family's coat of arms features a silver field with three red chevrons, representing valor and courage. The surname La-Varde can also be found in the United States, Canada, and other countries where French colonization or immigration took place.

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 : 15 June 2025

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