Last Name Lacroix

The surname Lacroix is of French origin. It derives from a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion, as "croix" means cross in French and was used to denote a spot of color on someone's face or head. Alternatively, it could have originated as an occupational name for a weaver, from the Old French word "croc," which meant hook, and was used to describe the hooks used in weaving.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Lacroix

The meaning and origin of the last name Lacroix

The surname Lacroix is of French origin, derived from the Old French word "croiz," which means "cross." This name was originally a topographical name for someone who lived near a crossroads or at a place marked by a cross. Over time, it has been anglicized to various forms such as Crozier, Croix, and La Croix in different regions. In its original French form, Lacroix means "the cross," and like many surnames, it originated during the Middle Ages as a way for individuals to distinguish themselves from others who lived in the same area. The name is common among the French-speaking population and has been spread around the world through migration.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lacroix

The surname Lacroix has its origins in France, where it is among the top 2,000 most common last names. It is primarily concentrated in regions such as Normandy and Brittany, reflecting the historical influence of these areas on French naming practices. Over time, French colonization and immigration have led to the dispersal of the Lacroix name globally. Today, significant populations bearing this surname can be found in various parts of Canada, particularly Quebec, due to French settlement in New France during the 17th and 18th centuries. The name is also prevalent in the United States, predominantly among descendants of French Canadians who migrated southward. Smaller communities with the Lacroix surname can be found in various other countries, such as Belgium, Haiti, and Australia, reflecting historical patterns of migration and settlement.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lacroix

The surname Lacroix has several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration and regional dialects over time. Here are some common variants:

* LaCroix (with an uppercase "C") is the most commonly used anglicized version of the name.
* De la Croix, de Lacroix, and Du Lacroix are French versions that indicate nobility or membership in a specific region.
* LaCruz, Lacruse, and Lacrus are Spanish variations derived from the same root as Lacroix.
* De la Cruz and du Cruz are also Spanish versions of the surname.
* Other less common variations include: Lacrosse (a French-Canadian variation), Croizet (French), Croix (French, Breton, and Norman), La Croce (Italian), La Cruz (Portuguese and Galician), and de la Croix (Basque).
* In addition, there may be misspellings or alternate spellings such as Lacros, La Croz, and others. It's important to note that these variations can also be first names in some languages, so it's essential to consider context when researching genealogy.

Famous people with the last name Lacroix

Jacques Lacroix, a Canadian journalist and author, is one of the notable individuals bearing the surname Lacroix. Known for his investigative work, he was awarded the Amnesty International Media Award for his exposé on human rights violations in Burma. In the world of fashion, Thierry Mugler, born Thierry Lacroix, was a French fashion designer and perfumer who created avant-garde clothing and extravagant stage designs for performers such as Lady Gaga and Diana Ross. Lastly, Danielle Lacroix, a Canadian actress, is recognized for her role in the television series Trauma and for her work in theater, film, and voice acting. These are some of the well-known personalities with the last name Lacroix across various fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Lacroix

The surname Lacroix originates from France and is derived from the Old French word "croix," meaning "cross." It is one of the many occupational names that were originally given to people who were associated with a particular profession or occupation, in this case, a maker or seller of crosses. The name became more widespread during the Middle Ages when the Crusades brought a renewed interest in Christianity and the use of crosses as symbols. In France, the Lacroix family has been traced back to the 13th century, with notable branches settling in Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy. The name was also taken to Quebec during the colonial period by French-speaking immigrants who sought new opportunities in North America. Today, Lacroix is a common surname in both France and Canada.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Lacroix"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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