What is the origin of the last name Larrouy?

The surname Larrouy is believed to have origins in the Basque region of Spain and France. It is derived from a place name, specifically a location called Larrucea in Navarre, Spain. The name likely comes from the Basque word "laruze" meaning "oak tree." Over time, variations in spelling such as Larroquy, Larroy, Larrouay, and Larrey have emerged due to differences in transcription and translation over the centuries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Larrouy

The meaning and origin of the last name Larrouy

The surname Larrouy is a Basque name, originating from the southern Pyrenees region, which spans parts of France and Spain. It belongs to the group of patronymic names that are derived from the father's occupation or nickname. In this case, "Larru" translates to "wolf" in Basque, while "-oy" is a common suffix for patronymic surnames, meaning 'son of'. Therefore, Larrouy likely means 'son of the wolf', though it's important to note that the exact interpretation can vary within the Basque culture and its complex naming traditions. Over time, the spelling has evolved due to phonetic changes and variations in transcription.

Geographical distribution of the last name Larrouy

The surname Larrouy is predominantly found in the Basque region of Spain and France. It is particularly common in the provinces of Navarra, Gipuzkoa, and Biscay in Spain, as well as in the French Basque Country, specifically in the departments of Pyrénées-Atlantiques and Labord. This surname is considered a toponymic one, derived from place names. Specifically, it is believed to originate from various locations in the Spanish province of Navarra, such as Larraun, Larrea, or Larreaga. The distribution of the name reflects the historical migration patterns and cultural ties between the Basque communities on both sides of the Pyrenees.

Variants and spellings of the last name Larrouy

The surname Larrouy has several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, and historical transcription errors. Some common spelling variations include Larroi, Larrue, Laroy, L'Arroy, Laroue, L'Arrue, Lerroux, and de Larrouy (indicating a noble or aristocratic family). These differences may arise from the original Basque root "Larre" meaning "rock" or "fortress," which is common in the Basque Country region where many names originate. However, it's essential to note that the actual spelling can depend on factors such as immigration patterns, cultural assimilation, and individual preference. Thus, while Larrouy remains the most prevalent form of this surname, its variations serve as fascinating testaments to the family's history and migration across time and space.

Famous people with the last name Larrouy

Notable individuals with the surname Larrousseau include:

1. Jean Larrousse (born 1948), a French composer and musician known for his contributions to electronic music and synthesizer design. He is best recognized for co-founding the band Alpha Centauri.

2. Antoine Laroussi (born 1986), a Tunisian football player who currently plays as a defender for Étoile Sportive du Sahel in the Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1.

3. Jacques Larouche (1914-2005), a Canadian politician and diplomat who served as Canada's Minister of External Affairs from 1979 to 1984. He was also a prominent figure in international peacekeeping efforts.

4. Pierre Larousse (1817-1875), a French lexicographer, grammarian, and encyclopedist who authored the popular reference work "Grand Dictionnaire Universel du XIXe Siècle."

Genealogical research on the last name Larrouy

The Larrouy surname is predominantly found in the Basque Country, a region spanning parts of Spain and France. Originating from this region, the Larrouy family can be traced back to medieval times. One of the earliest known instances of the name is in the 13th century, where Pierre de Larrou was recorded in the archives of the Basque region. The name, derived from a place or estate named "Larre", has several variations such as Larrey, Larrue, and Larroy. Over the centuries, members of the Larrouy family have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, arts, and military service within the Basque region and beyond. Notable figures with the Larrouy surname include Jean Larrouy, a French naval officer who served during the Napoleonic Wars, and Basque painter Imanol Larrañaga.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

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.

Last updated :

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names